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Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Oral Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2021) | Viewed by 20189

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Oral diseases are common in the elderly population which can lead to pain, tooth loss, disfigurement, poor chewing efficiency, and reduced life quality. Dental and oral health conditions in the elders are often compromised by their underlying chronic health problems. Notwithstanding this, therapeutic treatment of chronic diseases and over-the-counter medications can lead to reduction in salivary flow that further complicates oral health and puts elders under high risk of caries and oral mucosal infections. Similarly, dental treatments for people who have special needs and demand special care often pose great challenges to dentists. Dental care programs designed for the elderly and special groups which aim at disease prevention, replacement of tissue loss, and restoration of function should take into account their health conditions and capabilities of self-care. Cooperation among medical and dental professionals and allied healthcare workers is necessary. 

This Special Issue welcomes studies and reviews on dental care for elderly and special groups. Links of oral health and general health, development of treatment approaches, evaluation of treatment, and dental care programs for elders and special groups are also within the scope of this issue.

Dr. Katherine Chiu Man Leung
Prof. Dr. Chun Hung Chu
Guest Editors

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • elderly
  • chewing
  • special needs
  • oral health conditions
  • dental care
  • xerostomia

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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11 pages, 342 KiB  
Article
Late Post-Operative Occurrence of Dentin Hypersensitivity in Adult Patients Following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation—A Preliminary Report
by Agnieszka Bogusławska-Kapała, Barbara Kochańska, Ewa Rusyan, Grzegorz Władysław Basak and Izabela Strużycka
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(16), 8761; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18168761 - 19 Aug 2021
Viewed by 1483
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) is one of the most commonly performed transplantation procedures nowadays. Despite the significant progress made in the treatment, alloHSCT is still associated with numerous complications also affecting the oral cavity. One of them is dentin hypersensitivity (DH)—a [...] Read more.
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) is one of the most commonly performed transplantation procedures nowadays. Despite the significant progress made in the treatment, alloHSCT is still associated with numerous complications also affecting the oral cavity. One of them is dentin hypersensitivity (DH)—a sharp, short-term pain that occurs when stimuli act on exposed dentin. Various authors point out that DH may result in a significantly lower quality of life, among other things by impeding the consumption of food as well as causing difficulties in daily oral hygiene. The aim of the study was a preliminary analysis of the incidence rate and severity of DH pain in adult patients during late period after alloHSCT. The impact of chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGvHD) and time after alloHCT were also considered. A total of 80 patients were examined. cGvHD was identified in 52 participants. The incidence rate and severity of DH pain was assessed on the basis of a questionnaire and a clinical examination. DH pain appeared a serious problem in late period after alloHSCT regardless of post-transplant time. DH primarily affected cGvHD patients. The prevention-treatment protocol for DH should be developed for this group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups)
10 pages, 341 KiB  
Article
Oral Health Related Quality of Life and Prosthetic Status among Institutionalized Elderly from the Bucharest Area: A Pilot Study
by Laura Iosif, Cristina Teodora Preoteasa, Elena Preoteasa, Ana Ispas, Radu Ilinca, Cǎtǎlina Murariu-Mǎgureanu and Oana Elena Amza
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6663; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18126663 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2531
Abstract
The aim of the study was to assess the oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) of elderly in care homes, one of Romania’s most vulnerable social categories, to correlate it to sociodemographic, oral health parameters, and prosthodontic status. Therefore, a cross-sectional study [...] Read more.
The aim of the study was to assess the oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) of elderly in care homes, one of Romania’s most vulnerable social categories, to correlate it to sociodemographic, oral health parameters, and prosthodontic status. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was performed on 58 geriatrics divided into 3 age groups, who were clinically examined and answered the oral health impact profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire. Very high rates of complete edentulism in the oldest-old subgroup (bimaxillary in 64.3%; mandibular in 64.3%; maxillary in 85.7%), and alarming frequencies in the other subgroups (middle-old and youngest-old), statistically significant differences between age groups being determined. The OHIP-14 mean score was 14.5. Although not statistically significant, females had higher OHIP-14 scores, also middle-old with single maxillary arch, single mandibular arch, and bimaxillary complete edentulism, whether they wore dentures or not, but especially those without dental prosthetic treatment in the maxilla. A worse OHRQoL was also observed in wearers of bimaxillary complete dentures, in correlation with periodontal disease-related edentulism, in those with tertiary education degree, and those who came from rural areas. There were no statistically significant correlations of OHRQoL with age, total number of edentulous spaces or edentulous spaces with no prosthetic treatment. In conclusion, despite poor oral health and prosthetic status of the institutionalized elderly around Bucharest, the impact on their wellbeing is comparatively moderate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups)
12 pages, 395 KiB  
Article
Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Anticoagulated Patients with Warfarin Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Johana Alejandra Moreno-Drada, Alex Junio Silva da Cruz, Matheus Luis Soares de Faria, Luís Otávio Miranda Cota, Maria Auxiliadora Parreiras Martins, Isabela Almeida Pordeus and Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães de Abreu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(7), 3714; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18073714 - 02 Apr 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2375
Abstract
To evaluate factors associated with oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients under oral anticoagulant therapy with warfarin, a cross-sectional study was conducted. Validated questionnaires assessed self-reported periodontal disease, demographic variables, and OHRQoL using the short version of the Oral Health Impact [...] Read more.
To evaluate factors associated with oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients under oral anticoagulant therapy with warfarin, a cross-sectional study was conducted. Validated questionnaires assessed self-reported periodontal disease, demographic variables, and OHRQoL using the short version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) instrument. After calibration (Kappa > 0.60), an examiner evaluated patients’ experience with dental caries and the need for dental prostheses. Statistical analysis involved proportions and measures of central tendency. Negative binomial regression models were used to estimate the rate ratios (RR) and the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). The sample consisted of 158 individuals, with a mean age of 58.8 years (SD = 12.1), of which 62.7% of the participants were women. The OHIP-14 mean was 10.62 (SD = 10.92). A higher OHIP-14 total score (worse OHRQoL) was associated with ethnic group, age, periodontal disease self-report, dental caries, and oral health self-report. Demographic and clinical factors can negatively influence the perception of anticoagulated patients on OHRQoL. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups)
11 pages, 823 KiB  
Article
Biocompatibility and Effectiveness of a Novel, Organic Olive Oil-Based Denture Adhesive: A Multicenter Randomized and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
by Luís Azevedo, André Correia, Carlos F. Almeida, Pedro Molinero-Mourelle, Maria Correia and Jaime Del Río Highsmith
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(7), 3398; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18073398 - 25 Mar 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2378
Abstract
To assess the clinical efficacy of a novel, organic olive oil-based denture adhesive and its effect on Candida albicans growth in maxillary edentulous individuals wearing complete dentures, individuals were selected from two dental schools in Portugal and Spain. Twenty-eight complete dentures were relined, [...] Read more.
To assess the clinical efficacy of a novel, organic olive oil-based denture adhesive and its effect on Candida albicans growth in maxillary edentulous individuals wearing complete dentures, individuals were selected from two dental schools in Portugal and Spain. Twenty-eight complete dentures were relined, following a standardized protocol. The novel product (test) was compared with a commercialized adhesive (control) and Vaseline (placebo) randomly assigned in a cross-study design. The retention resistance was measured with a gnathometer and a dynamometer. The patients related outcome evaluations with a five-point questionnaire, and the Candida albicans growth in a Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) medium was used to evaluate differences between the placebo and experimental product. Twenty-three participants were included. The dynamometer evaluation showed significant differences between not using a denture adhesive and using either (experimental, p = 0.03; control, p = 0.04) and no significant differences between the two adhesives (p > 0.05). In the subjective analysis, the experimental adhesive showed a significantly longer effectiveness (p = 0.001), and the control reported better results in taste (p = 0.03) and in chewing (p = 0.001). The test adhesive showed better (p < 0.001) Candida albicans growth inhibition. The experimental adhesive showed longer effectiveness than the control and the placebo with a better inhibition capacity for the growth of Candida albicans. Patients reported better abilities for speech, chewing, taste, and retirement in the control adhesive. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups)
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12 pages, 358 KiB  
Article
Oral Health Status and the Impact on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life among the Institutionalized Elderly Population: A Cross-Sectional Study in an Area of Southern Italy
by Aida Bianco, Silvia Mazzea, Leonzio Fortunato, Amerigo Giudice, Rosa Papadopoli, Carmelo Giuseppe Angelo Nobile and Maria Pavia
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 2175; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18042175 - 23 Feb 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2982
Abstract
Background: The objectives of this study were to describe the oral health status in the institutionalized geriatric population in an area of southern Italy and to identify the impact of oral health on the Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL). Methods: Data [...] Read more.
Background: The objectives of this study were to describe the oral health status in the institutionalized geriatric population in an area of southern Italy and to identify the impact of oral health on the Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL). Methods: Data were collected from individuals aged ≥60 years in randomly selected Calabrian long-term care facilities. The dental health status was assessed recording the decayed, missing, or filled dental elements due to the carious lesions (DMFT) index, the presence of visible dental plaque, and the gingival condition. The influence of the dental health status on the self-perceived value of life was assessed using the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI). Results: Among the 344 elderly individuals included, 18.4% reported frequent tooth-brushing, and only 39.9% reported the need of dental care. The DMFT index was 26.4. Less than a third of the participants had a GOHAI score of ≤50 which is suggestive of highly compromised OHRQoL. The GOHAI score was significantly better for elderly individuals with no self-perceived need of dental care and with a lower DMFT index. Conclusions: The burden of oral conditions among residents in long-term care facilities was considerable, with a high prevalence of missing teeth and dentures. Strategies targeting care providers are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups)
12 pages, 863 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the Impact of Endodontic Therapy on Survival among Dialysis Patients in Taiwan: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study
by Chih-Chien Chiu, Ya-Chieh Chang, Ren-Yeong Huang, Jenq-Shyong Chan, Chi-Hsiang Chung, Wu-Chien Chien, Yung-Hsi Kao and Po-Jen Hsiao
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(1), 326; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18010326 - 05 Jan 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2833
Abstract
Objectives Dental problems occur widely in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may increase comorbidities. Root canal therapy (RCT) is a common procedure for advanced decayed caries with pulp inflammation and root canals. However, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are considered to [...] Read more.
Objectives Dental problems occur widely in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may increase comorbidities. Root canal therapy (RCT) is a common procedure for advanced decayed caries with pulp inflammation and root canals. However, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients are considered to have a higher risk of potentially life-threatening infections after treatment and might fail to receive satisfactory dental care such as RCT. We investigated whether appropriate intervention for dental problems had a potential impact among dialysis patients. Design Men and women who began maintenance dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2015, in Taiwan (total 12,454 patients) were enrolled in this study. Participants were followed up from the first reported dialysis date to the date of death or end of dialysis by December 31, 2015. Setting Data collection was conducted in Taiwan. Results A total of 2633 and 9821 patients were classified into the RCT and non-RCT groups, respectively. From the data of Taiwan’s National Health Insurance, a total of 5,092,734 teeth received RCT from 2000 to 2015. Then, a total of 12,454 patients were followed within the 16 years, and 4030 patients passed away. The results showed that members of the non-RCT group (34.93%) had a higher mortality rate than those of the RCT group (22.79%; p = 0.001). The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratio for the risk of death was 0.69 (RCT vs. non-RCT; p = 0.001). Conclusions This study suggested that patients who had received RCT had a relatively lower risk of death among dialysis patients. Infectious diseases had a significant role in mortality among dialysis patients with non-RCT. Appropriate interventions for dental problems may increase survival among dialysis patients. Abbreviations: CKD = chronic kidney disease, ESRD = end-stage renal disease, RCT = root canal therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups)
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Review

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15 pages, 418 KiB  
Review
A Systematic Review on Caries Status of Older Adults
by Alice Kit Ying Chan, Manisha Tamrakar, Chloe Meng Jiang, Edward Chin Man Lo, Katherine Chiu Man Leung and Chun Hung Chu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(20), 10662; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph182010662 - 12 Oct 2021
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 4277
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review was to provide an update on caries prevalence in older adults aged 60 years or above around the globe. Two independent reviewers performed a systematic literature search of English publications from January 2016 to December 2020 using [...] Read more.
The aim of this systematic review was to provide an update on caries prevalence in older adults aged 60 years or above around the globe. Two independent reviewers performed a systematic literature search of English publications from January 2016 to December 2020 using Pubmed, Scopus, Embase/Ovid and Web of Science. The MeSH terms used were “dental caries”, “root caries”, “DMF index”, “aged” and “aged 80 and over”. Further searches in Google Scholar retrieved eight additional publications. The epidemiological surveys reporting the prevalence of dental caries or root caries or caries experience using DMFT (decayed, missing and filled teeth) and DFR (decayed and filled root) in older adults aged 60 years or above were included. Quality of the publications was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data. Among the 5271 identified publications, 39 articles of moderate or good quality were included. Twenty studies were conducted in Asia (China, India, Vietnam, Singapore and Turkey), ten in Europe (Ireland, Norway, Finland, Germany, Portugal, Poland, Romania and Kosovo), three in North America (USA and Mexico), one in South America (Brazil), two in Oceania (Australia) and three in Africa (Malawi, Egypt and South Africa). The prevalence of dental caries ranged from 25% (Australia) to 99% (South Africa), while the prevalence of root caries ranged from 8% (Finland) to 74% (Brazil) in community dwellers. The situation was even worse in institutionalised older adults of which the mean DMFT score varied from 6.9 (Malawi) to 29.7 (South Africa). Based on the included studies published in the last 5 years, caries is still prevalent in older adults worldwide and their prevalence varies across countries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dental Care for Elderly and Special Groups)
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