The old-old dental patient: the challenge of clinical decision-making
Article Abstract:
Dental care for patients age 75 or more presents special concerns. The dentist should evaluate the elderly patient's financial and social resources. The patient's medical condition must be considered, including whether the patient has hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, or has had a stroke. Other considerations include whether the patient is depressed or has dementia, has multiple chronic conditions, or takes other medications. Care should be coordinated with the patient's other health care providers. The goals of care vary according to the patient's needs and priorities. In general, the patient needs to be able to chew, should be free from oral pain, have adequate saliva, and an intact sense of taste. Cosmetic needs may also be important to the patient. Clinical assessment should consider cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, bone resorption, sores or inflammations, and saliva production. The treatment plan should take into account the individual patient's dental needs, physical and mental health, resources, priorities and concerns, and the dentist's capabilities.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1996
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The influence of systemic diseases on oral health care in older adults
Article Abstract:
Older adults are more prone to systemic diseases compared to other age groups, and dentists should understand how these diseases can affect their dental care. A dentist may consult their aging patient's attending physician to create a treatment plan that is appropriate to the patient's special needs. The dental health management issues concerning systemic diseases such as head and neck cancer are reviewed.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 2007
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The complexities involved with managing the care of an elderly patient
Article Abstract:
Dentists describe the care of elderly patients based on the case of an 85-year-old woman. Elderly patients may often have life styles that make it difficult to schedule regular appointments. The treatment plan for this particular patient lasted for five years.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 2003
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