Gerodontology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Exploring Perimenopausal and Menopausal Women's Oral Health Perceptions and Practices in Australia-A Qualitative Study.
Thomas N, Peters K, O'Reilly K … +2 more , Sousa MS, George A
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41479259 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To explore the perceptions and practices of women in peri/menopause towards oral healthcare in Australia. BACKGROUND: Hormonal changes associated with peri/menopause create a period where women may be more pro...
OBJECTIVE: To explore the perceptions and practices of women in peri/menopause towards oral healthcare in Australia. BACKGROUND: Hormonal changes associated with peri/menopause create a period where women may be more prone to developing oral health problems, which can significantly impact their quality of life. While healthcare providers are capable of addressing women's oral health needs across various life stages, limited evidence exists on the management of oral health by women in peri/menopause and the role of non-dental healthcare providers in promoting oral health. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventeen semi-structured interviews were conducted with Australian women in peri/menopause using maximum variation and snowball sampling. A hybrid thematic analysis was used to construct themes and subthemes. RESULTS: Women who self-identified as being in peri/menopause with an age range of 43-59 years and residing across different Australian states participated in the study. Dry mouth was the most commonly reported oral health issue by participants, followed by tooth sensitivity, tooth decay, gum problems, and bad breath. Participants reported that these oral health problems impacted their mental health, lifestyle, and dietary choices. Barriers such as cost, lack of awareness of the impact of peri/menopause on oral health, systemic illness, carer responsibilities, and limited support from healthcare providers, including dentists, restricted participants in accessing oral healthcare. Women suggested that raising awareness, providing cost-effective dental services, and oral health promotion through their health care providers are needed to overcome the oral health challenges women face in peri/menopause. CONCLUSION: Women undergoing peri/menopause may experience greater susceptibility to oral health problems and encounter a range of challenges in managing their oral healthcare. These findings underscore the need for clinically informed, patient-centred strategies, including proactive screening, tailored preventive guidance, and improved access to care to support oral health during this transitional stage.
Handheld Mobile Dental Radiography in Geriatric Care.
Ardila CM, Vivares-Builes AM, Pineda-Vélez E
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41472498 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Older Adults' Social Relationships and Dental Visits: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Yoshida-Kohno E, Fueki K, Aida J
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 41472480 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Weak social relationships are associated with high rates of tooth loss in older adults. To explore the mechanisms connecting social relationships and tooth loss, we systematically assessed the current evide...
INTRODUCTION: Weak social relationships are associated with high rates of tooth loss in older adults. To explore the mechanisms connecting social relationships and tooth loss, we systematically assessed the current evidence for the association between social relationships and dental care utilisation in this population. METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive literature search of five electronic databases for relevant studies published between 1966 and 2024. We included observational studies assessing the structural, functional and/or both combined components of social relationships as exposures and dental care utilisation as outcomes in adults aged 60+. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. To assess whether weak social relationships are associated with low dental care utilisation, an average odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval were generated using a meta-analysis. RESULTS: Eighteen studies were included in the review, and 12 (35,097 participants) in the meta-analysis. The average OR was 0.81 (0.69, 0.94), indicating a 19% lower probability of utilising dental care for those with weaker social relationships. CONCLUSION: This review suggests that weak social relationships are a significant factor associated with low dental care utilisation among older adults, highlighting a potential for public health interventions that address social isolation and loneliness. To guide future interventions, a better understanding of the specific components and time-dependency of this association is needed (PROSPERO [CRD42023417845]). PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023417845).
Consideration of Oral Health Within Guidelines and Policy Documents Focused on Nutritional Status and Dietary Intake for Older Adults in Care Homes in the UK: A Scoping Review.
Makino S, Woodside J, Sallam A … +11 more , McCorry N, Harvey M, Heilmann A, Lappin C, McEvoy C, Mitchell G, Watson S, O'Neill C, Tsakos G, Brocklehurst P, McKenna G
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41457464 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Older care home residents are particularly vulnerable to both malnutrition and chronic dental diseases, such as caries and periodontal disease. While high-sugar oral nutritional supplements and fortified fo...
INTRODUCTION: Older care home residents are particularly vulnerable to both malnutrition and chronic dental diseases, such as caries and periodontal disease. While high-sugar oral nutritional supplements and fortified foods are commonly used to prevent undernutrition, excessive sugar intake increases the risk of dental caries. Despite the well-established interplay between nutrition and oral health, existing guidelines and policy documents tend to address these aspects separately, resulting in fragmented care. This study aims to examine how oral health is considered within guidelines and policy documents focused on nutritional status and dietary intake for care home residents in the United Kingdom. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's framework. A systematic search identified UK and Irish based guidelines and policy documents addressing both nutrition and oral health in care homes. Documents exclusively covering either nutrition or oral health were excluded. Data were extracted, reviewed and analysed thematically. RESULTS: Twelve documents were included: five nutritional documents incorporating oral health and seven oral health documents referencing dietary intake. Nutritional documents acknowledged sugar-related oral health risks but lacked practical caries prevention strategies. Oral health documents emphasised sugar restriction and hygiene but provided limited guidance on balancing nutritional adequacy with oral health preservation. CONCLUSION: Current guidelines and policy documents insufficiently integrate oral health and nutrition, resulting in fragmented care. Future policies should adopt an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating evidence-based dietary and oral health strategies to improve care home residents' well-being.
Effect of Oral Rehabilitation With Complete Dentures on Head Posture and Body Balance: A Systematic Review.
Barbosa IMM, Avelino MEL, Neves BR … +1 more , Moraes SLD
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 41439578 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between the use of maxillary and mandibular complete dentures, head posture, and postural stability in edentulous older adults. BACKGROUND: Tooth loss can negatively impact both...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between the use of maxillary and mandibular complete dentures, head posture, and postural stability in edentulous older adults. BACKGROUND: Tooth loss can negatively impact both head posture and postural stability, increasing the risk of falls. Complete dentures (CD) may restore balance by improving occlusion and supporting head and neck alignment, but their full impact on balance is still unclear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An electronic search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase up to June 2024. A search strategy was developed based on the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome framework. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool, and the certainty of the evidence was evaluated with the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach. RESULTS: Eight clinical trials were included, involving 167 participants aged 40 to 82 years. Most studies reported improvements in head posture and postural stability immediately after rehabilitation with complete dentures, with trends showing increased cranio-vertical angles, improved dynamic stability, faster walking speed, and reduced center of gravity sway, some of which persisted for up to 30 days. The certainty of evidence was moderate for body balance and very low for head posture. CONCLUSIONS: Oral rehabilitation with CD appears to provide immediate improvements in head posture and body balance in edentulous individuals, potentially enhancing safety and reducing the risk of falls. However, further studies are needed to evaluate long-term effects and standardise methodologies.
Dental Factors Associated With Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Institutionalised Older Adults: A Systematic Review.
de Morais RS, Hilgert JB, Hugo FN … +1 more , Rech RS
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41414802 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Aging is associated with a decline in physiological functions. Dysphagia, a disorder among older adults, impairs feeding and is related to morphological and functional changes in the stomatognathic system, wh...
BACKGROUND: Aging is associated with a decline in physiological functions. Dysphagia, a disorder among older adults, impairs feeding and is related to morphological and functional changes in the stomatognathic system, which worsen with age-related physiological decline, particularly among institutionalised older adults. OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the association between oral health conditions, dental status, xerostomia, and dysphagia among institutionalised older adults. METHODS: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and included a search of PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase for observational and randomised clinical trial studies published up to December 2024, with an update in January 2025. RESULTS: From 1761 identified articles, 44 were reviewed, and 11 met the inclusion criteria. These studies employed subjective measures such as dysphagia questionnaires, the Eating Assessment Tool-10 (EAT-10), the Dysphagia Risk Evaluation Protocol (PARD), and interviews using the Minimum Data Set for Nursing Home Resident Assessment (MDS-NH). Objective assessments included clinical evaluations, indirect and direct swallowing tests, and video analyses of feeding behaviour. Findings indicate that older individuals with fewer functional teeth, absent occlusal pairs, compromised natural teeth, gingivitis, or dental caries have a higher risk of dysphagia. In contrast, occlusal contact, natural teeth, or well-fitted dentures are associated with reduced swallowing difficulties. Neither denture use alone nor oral hygiene showed a direct association with dysphagia. However, severe xerostomia and reduced salivary flow were associated with a higher risk of dysphagia. CONCLUSION: Dysphagia is associated with poor oral health and xerostomia in institutionalised older adults, though further research is needed to clarify these relationships.
Oral Health Needs and Expectations in a Palliative Care Unit-A Qualitative Study.
Gambetta-Tessini K, Torre Silva MJ, De Marchi RJ … +2 more , Vera Riquelme V, León S
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41404855 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines palliative care as a people-centred health service aiming at improving the quality of life of patients and their families when facing life-threatening illnesses....
INTRODUCTION: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines palliative care as a people-centred health service aiming at improving the quality of life of patients and their families when facing life-threatening illnesses. Oral health plays a significant role in the overall quality of life of these patients; yet, it is often overlooked. This study aims to explore the perceptions of patients, families and healthcare professionals on oral health and the need for oral health care in a palliative care unit (PCU). METHODS: This qualitative study employed a grounded theory approach. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted in the PCU at Hospital Base of Valdivia in Chile. Data were transcribed, analysed and categorised through open and axial coding, allowing the identification and organisation of key concepts into thematic categories. RESULTS: A total of 15 interviews were conducted, involving seven healthcare professionals, four caregivers and four patients. Five thematic categories emerged from the analysis: (i) barriers to dental care, (ii) interdisciplinary team in palliative care, (iii) oral health training in palliative care professionals, (iv) oral health as part of general health and (v) strengths in dental care. CONCLUSION: Participants recognised the importance of oral health for improving the quality of life within the palliative care setting. The integration of dental professionals into the interdisciplinary health team was identified as a critical yet challenging necessity.
Exploring Digital Health Technologies for Enhancing Oral Health: A Scoping Review of Interventions for Older Adults.
Javadi SKHS, Jamieson L, Nouri A … +2 more , Sohn W, Rudman A
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 41368693 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Older adults face substantial barriers to oral healthcare. Digital innovations are emerging as promising tools to improve access, prevention and education for older adults. AIM: To map digital interventions d...
BACKGROUND: Older adults face substantial barriers to oral healthcare. Digital innovations are emerging as promising tools to improve access, prevention and education for older adults. AIM: To map digital interventions designed to promote oral health in older adults, describe their targeted conditions, summarise study designs and delivery mechanisms and incorporate reported insights into user experiences and preferences. METHOD: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews, a comprehensive search was conducted across five databases up to January 2025. Eligibility criteria were defined using the PCC framework. Data were charted on intervention types, target oral health measures, study designs, delivery mechanisms and any reported user experiences or preferences. Findings were synthesised descriptively and organised into key themes to map the scope of current evidence. RESULTS: A total of 42 studies with diverse methods were included, covering Teledentistry, mobile applications, web platforms, social media, virtual reality, augmented reality and AI-driven technologies. These interventions targeted diagnosis and monitoring, clinical management, behaviour change, triage and screening, functional oral health improvements and oral health-related quality of life. Several studies also reported on user experiences and preferences, highlighting perceived benefits such as convenience, improved access, increased motivation and enhanced knowledge, alongside barriers including low digital literacy, technical difficulties and reliance on caregivers. CONCLUSION: Digital interventions show promise for promoting oral health in older adults by improving knowledge, supporting self-care and enhancing access to care. Their sustainable adoption, however, depends on usability and acceptability, particularly among community-dwelling older adults. These findings should be interpreted with caution due to potential publication bias and limited generalisability of available evidence. Future studies should employ more rigorous and longitudinal designs, incorporate user perspectives and assess both effectiveness and cost-effectiveness to guide scalable, sustainable implementation. These findings should be interpreted with caution due to potential publication bias and the limited generalisability of the available evidence.
Undergraduate Geriatric Dentistry Education in Thailand: A Survey Study.
Madiloggovit-Lower J, Suwannavesh W, Ettinger RL … +2 more , Lower TA, Kettratad-Pruksapong M
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41339950 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Thailand is experiencing rapid demographic aging and currently ranks third globally in population aging. Despite national initiatives such as the National Oral Health Plan for Senior Citizens (2015-2022), vari...
OBJECTIVE: Thailand is experiencing rapid demographic aging and currently ranks third globally in population aging. Despite national initiatives such as the National Oral Health Plan for Senior Citizens (2015-2022), variability persists in undergraduate geriatric dentistry education across Thai dental schools. This study surveyed current curricular practices and clinical training opportunities in geriatric dentistry across Thai dental schools. METHODS: A structured questionnaire was developed and distributed electronically to all 18 accredited dental schools in Thailand. The questionnaire collected information on institutional characteristics and details on geriatric dentistry curricula, including topics such as teaching methods, clinical training and funding sources. Responses were collected using the Qualtrics software platform. Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Thammasat University Ethics Board. RESULTS: Twelve dental schools completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 66.7%. All responding institutions included geriatric dentistry in their undergraduate curricula, though the methods of delivery varied considerably. Approximately 66.7% offered dedicated didactic courses, whereas the remainder integrated geriatric topics within broader coursework. The most commonly taught topics included oral tissue changes associated with aging, drug-induced dental diseases and systemic medical problems. However, topics such as the restorative management of older adults with psychological or neurological conditions were less frequently included. Most of the schools reported delivering clinical exposure for their students; however, these activities ranged from annual oral health screenings to compulsory clinical rotations at remote or primary care units or nursing homes. CONCLUSION: Thai dental schools widely recognise the importance of geriatric dentistry education; however, the extent and depth of curricular implementation vary considerably. Establishing standardised national guidelines and expanding clinical training opportunities are essential to adequately prepare future dental professionals to meet the complex oral health needs of older adults.
The Impact of Nutritional Status on Oral Health Outcomes and Management in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Srisanoi K, Wnuk I, Maniewicz S … +6 more , McKenna G, Müller F, Leles C, Papi P, Woodside J, Srinivasan M
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 41331978 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the relationship between nutritional status and the oral health of older adults (aged 75 years or older). The PECO focus question was, 'What is the occurrence...
OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the relationship between nutritional status and the oral health of older adults (aged 75 years or older). The PECO focus question was, 'What is the occurrence, association and impact of nutritional state on the oral health outcomes and its management in older adults?' METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was performed across MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase and the Cochrane Library. Publications up to April 2025 were considered, yielding 3324 records for initial screening. Quality assessment of the included studies predominantly revealed a low to moderate risk of bias. RESULTS: Eighty-three studies were included for data analysis. Meta-analyses demonstrated that older adults at risk of malnutrition had fewer teeth (SMD = -0.29; 95% CI: -0.46, -0.11; p = 0.002). Those with < 20 teeth and who were not rehabilitated with dentures were more likely to be malnourished (OR = 4.00; 95% CI: 1.21, 13.18; p = 0.02). Malnutrition was associated with self-reported chewing problems (OR = 2.38; 95% CI: 1.74, 3.26; p < 0.0001), swallowing problems (OR = 3.18; 95% CI: 2.20, 4.61; p < 0.0001) or dry mouth (OR = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.91, 2.88; p < 0.0001). Conversely, those with oral pain showed lower odds of malnutrition risk (OR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.52, 0.89; p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Fewer teeth, existing chewing or swallowing problems, dry mouth and the absence of removable dentures where needed, were associated with malnutrition in care-dependent older adults. The current lack of longitudinal studies and proof of causality for malnutrition affecting oral health outcomes underscores the need for further research to better clarify the complex relationship between oral health and nutrition in older populations. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO Registration: CRD420251003549.
Changes to the Editorial Team.
Thomson WM
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 41221551 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Efficacy of Silver Diamine Fluoride vs. Sodium Fluoride in Arresting Root Caries Among the Olders in Care Homes: A Randomised Controlled Trial.
Bhat B, Singhal DK, Singla N … +3 more , Nayak PP, Prabhu A, Anand L
Gerodontology · 2025 Oct · PMID 41159551 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Root caries is a major dental public health concern, particularly among the geriatric population residing in old age homes. Preventive and noninvasive strategies, such as topical fluorides, have shown promise...
BACKGROUND: Root caries is a major dental public health concern, particularly among the geriatric population residing in old age homes. Preventive and noninvasive strategies, such as topical fluorides, have shown promise in managing root caries. This study compares the effectiveness of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) and sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish in preventing and arresting root caries in this population. METHODS: A parallel group randomised clinical trial was conducted among elders (60-89 years) in old-age homes of Udupi District, India. Participants with at least one exposed root surface caries lesion were recruited and randomly allocated to either the SDF group or the NaF group. Caries activity status (active vs. arrested) was assessed at baseline, 1 month and 3 month follow-ups using explorer probing and ICDAS codes, with the primary outcome being arrest or progression of root caries lesions. Within-group changes were evaluated using McNemar's test, and between-group differences by Chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: A total of 57 participants were included (SDF group: 29; NaF group: 28). At 1 month follow-up, 96.6% of the SDF group showed arrested root caries, but only 50% in the NaF group showed arrested root caries (p < 0.001). At 3 months, 89.7% of the SDF group remained arrested, whereas only 21.63% of the NaF group maintained arrested caries (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: SDF may serve as a simple and practical treatment option for managing root caries, particularly in institutional care settings. Strengthening such preventive strategies can help address the growing burden of root caries in ageing populations and improve their overall quality of life.
Oral Healthcare Experiences and Needs of Older Adults in Residential Care Facilities: A Qualitative Exploration of Care Managers' Perception in the Indian Context.
Shigli K, Nayak S, Lagali-Jirge V … +1 more , Karuveettil V
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41159536 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Improved dental services have increased the retention of natural teeth and prostheses, creating complex oral care needs among older adults. Care managers are key in overseeing residents' oral health; their...
INTRODUCTION: Improved dental services have increased the retention of natural teeth and prostheses, creating complex oral care needs among older adults. Care managers are key in overseeing residents' oral health; their perceptions can inform strategies to improve geriatric oral health in residential aged care facilities (RACFs). OBJECTIVE: To explore care managers' perceptions of the oral healthcare experiences and needs of older adults in RACFs. METHODS: A descriptive qualitative study, grounded in a constructivist paradigm, was conducted using the Socio-Ecological Model to guide data collection and analysis at individual, interpersonal, organisational, community and policy levels. Ten care managers were purposively sampled and interviewed online using a semi-structured guide. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's framework. RESULTS: Participants (n = 10; age 28-59 years; mean age 41.7; 5 males, 5 females) were from urban and semi-urban areas of western India. Five themes were identified: (1) A Moral Duty to Care-Personal Beliefs and Emotional Drivers of Oral Health Practice; (2) Navigating Relational Complexities-Care Amidst Resistance, Trust and Support; (3) Systemic Gaps and Adaptive Practices in Resource-Limited Settings; (4) Disconnected Services and the Social Devaluation of Residents' Oral Health; and (5) Calls for Oral Health Care Delivery/Systemic Reforms-Embedding Oral Health in Aged Care Policy. CONCLUSION: Care managers perceived residents' oral health as often being deprioritized in RACFs due to competing general health demands. An interdisciplinary care team, including a dentist, stronger policy support, and targeted training for care managers and staff, was strongly recommended to improve older adults' oral health outcomes in residential settings.
Tongue-Strengthening Exercise in Older Adults With Sarcopenic Dysphagia: A Randomised Controlled Trial.
Park JS, Shim SH, Hwang NK
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41065294 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of tongue-strengthening exercise (TSE) based on exercise intensity on tongue strength and thickness in older adults with sarcopenic dysphagia. METHODS: Participants were randomly assig...
PURPOSE: To investigate the effects of tongue-strengthening exercise (TSE) based on exercise intensity on tongue strength and thickness in older adults with sarcopenic dysphagia. METHODS: Participants were randomly assigned to groups 1 and 2. Group 1 underwent TSE at an intensity of 80% 1-repetition maximum (1RM) for 90 times/day, 5 days/week, for 8 weeks. In contrast, group 2 performed TSE at an intensity of 50% 1RM for the same period and number of times as group 1. The outcome measures were tongue strength, thickness and dropout rate owing to exercise compliance. RESULTS: Tongue strength increased from 16.7 to 22.1 kPa in Group 1 (d = 2.97) and from 16.9 to 19.1 kPa in Group 2 (d = 1.18). Tongue thickness increased from 37.1 to 40.5 mm in Group 1 (d = 1.13) and from 37.9 to 38.8 mm in Group 2 (d = 0.31). Post-intervention, Group 1 achieved greater gains than Group 2 in both strength (+3.0 kPa, d = 1.46) and thickness (+1.7 mm, d = 0.56). Dropout rates were 26.7% in Group 1 and 6.7% in Group 2. CONCLUSION: TSE with an intensity of 80% 1RM was more effective than 50% 1RM in increasing tongue strength and thickness in older adults with sarcopenic dysphagia, but showed a relatively high dropout rate. Thus, it is recommended to select and apply an appropriate exercise intensity.
Material Well-Being, Oral Health and Affordability of Dental Care in Late-Middle-Aged New Zealanders.
Nordin N, Thomson WM, Broadbent JM … +2 more , Smith MB, Gibson R
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41039938 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Little is known about oral health among New Zealanders in late middle age. Planning for the needs of older people should be informed by adequate information on the oral health and dental service use of those...
BACKGROUND: Little is known about oral health among New Zealanders in late middle age. Planning for the needs of older people should be informed by adequate information on the oral health and dental service use of those who will be entering old age. Accordingly, we investigated material well-being-related inequalities in self-reported oral health, self-care and dental care affordability among late-middle-aged New Zealanders. METHOD: This study was based on an analysis of data from the New Zealand Health, Work, and Retirement (HWR) 2016 study focused on its 6th biennial wave (2016-2018). There were 1952 participants (58% female) aged 55-64 years. Key dependent variables were self-reported oral health, chewing ability and the perceived affordability of dental care. The exposure variable of interest was material well-being, controlling for other socio-economic status (SES) measures (household income and educational qualifications). Cross-tabulations and logistic regression estimated the associations between financial and material well-being and the oral-health-related variables. RESULTS: Approximately 90% of participants had retained at least one natural tooth, and over half had more than 20 teeth remaining (functional dentition). Approximately 70% reported having good oral health. There were consistent gradients in self-rated oral health and dentition status by education level, household income and material well-being, with higher proportions among those who were better off. Just under one third of participants (30%) reported experiencing issues with dental care affordability. Material well-being showed the strongest associations with the abovementioned aspects of oral health and access to dental care than the other SES measures. CONCLUSION: The findings provide important evidence of the association between material well-being in oral health and access to dental care.
Mobile Dental Radiology-Evaluation of Quality Requirements for Radiographs Applying Handheld Mobile Radiography.
Geibel AM, Keutel C, Kildal D … +1 more , Geibel MA
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41002018 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Radiography is required in domiciliary dentistry in order to ensure accurate diagnosis, but the available devices have not yet been approved due to a lack of research regarding the quality of single tooth rad...
BACKGROUND: Radiography is required in domiciliary dentistry in order to ensure accurate diagnosis, but the available devices have not yet been approved due to a lack of research regarding the quality of single tooth radiography. AIM: To examine dental radiographs taken using the mobile X-ray device (Nomad Pro 2, Envista, Brea, CA) with regard to their quality, examinability and their benefit for treatment planning in mobile dentistry. METHODS: The image quality of radiographs using a mobile handheld X-ray system was assessed. The quality criteria catalogue of the German Dental Association was applied. RESULTS: Of 127 dental radiographs, 80% (101) showed no quality defects. Diagnosis-relevant quality defects were found in 17% (21). 61% (78) of radiographs had clinically relevant secondary findings that had an influence on further dental treatment and on the prognosis of the teeth. CONCLUSIONS: Dental care in nursing homes presents significant challenges, particularly regarding oral preventive medicine. Surgical procedures are legally contestable without dental radiology, and this raises professional and ethical concerns. Mobile dental radiology is an important component of treatment in mobile dentistry. Unexpected findings such as apical osteolysis or root remnants can only be identified and treated by means of radiography.
The Associations of Social Determinants and Medical Conditions With Edentulism in Indonesia's Aging Population.
Arini M, Maula AW, Aulia RK … +3 more , Darajati RP, Yuan JC, Sukotjo C
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 40980896 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe edentulism and its associations in older adult Indonesians. BACKGROUND: Indonesia is the fourth largest population in the world, with a total population of 274.859 million people in 2022. The preva...
OBJECTIVE: To describe edentulism and its associations in older adult Indonesians. BACKGROUND: Indonesia is the fourth largest population in the world, with a total population of 274.859 million people in 2022. The prevalence of edentulism was 7.2% in 2018. The population aged 60 and above was around 9.6% in 2019 and is projected to reach around 20% by 2045. METHODS: The data were obtained from the most recent Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS-5), which investigated edentulism in individuals aged 65 and older. The exposure variables were social determinants of health and medical conditions, with the outcome being edentulism status. Log binomial regression was used to estimate the prevalence ratio. RESULTS: The overall weighted prevalence of edentulism was 15.7% (95% CI = 13.5-18.1). The sample comprised 2598 respondents aged 65 years or above. The prevalence of edentulism was 2.1 times higher in individuals over 75 years old. Higher education is linked to a lower prevalence of tooth loss. Insurance holders had a 20% lower prevalence. Hypertension increased prevalence by 20%, and chronic lung disease raised it by 1.5 times. Multivariate analysis confirmed significant interactions between education, economic status and age, affecting edentulism rates. CONCLUSION: The social determinants of health (education level, economic status, insurance and age) and medical conditions influenced the prevalence of edentulism in Indonesia's aging population. Addressing these upstream factors is essential for reducing oral health disparities and improving population-level oral health outcomes.
Edentulism and Its Rehabilitation Among Older People in China.
Zhou Q, Chau RCW, Chen HM … +2 more , Chen H, McGrath C
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 40968711 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of edentulism and its rehabilitation in China's older population and describe socio-demographic differences in edentulism and rehabilitation. METHODS: Secondary analyses of the Chi...
OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of edentulism and its rehabilitation in China's older population and describe socio-demographic differences in edentulism and rehabilitation. METHODS: Secondary analyses of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Bivariate and regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: The weighted prevalence of edentulism was 26.0% (95% CI 24.8-27.2). Approximately two-thirds of edentulous elders had been rehabilitated (63.6%, 95% CI 57.4-69.4). In regression analyses, older people had a higher prevalence ratio (PR) for edentulism than younger elders: PR 3.0 (95% CI 2.7-3.4) for those aged 80 and older and PR 1.9 (95% CI 1.7-2.1) for those aged 70-79, with reference to those aged 60-69. Those who had attained secondary education had a lower PR for edentulism than those with no formal education: PR 0.7 (95% CI 0.6-0.8). Those from Non-Agricultural Hukou (Urban area) had a lower PR than those from Agricultural Hukou (Rural area): PR 0.8 (95% CI 0.7, 1.0). Older adults aged 80 and above were less likely to receive denture rehabilitation compared to those aged 60-69, with a PR of 0.6 (95% CI: 0.5-0.9). In contrast, individuals with secondary education showed a greater likelihood of denture rehabilitation than those without formal education, with a PR of 1.3 (95% CI: 1.0-1.6). Additionally, non-Han ethnic groups had a slightly higher chance of denture rehabilitation compared to their Han counterparts, with a PR of 1.2 (95% CI: 1.0-1.5). CONCLUSIONS: Approximately one in four older people in China are edentulous, and approximately two in three of them have been rehabilitated. Socio-demographic differences in edentulism rates and rates of rehabilitation are apparent. These findings reveal disparities in edentulism and denture rehabilitation among China's older adults (60+), urging targeted policies to enhance access for less-educated and rural elders while offering insights for global ageing populations.
Caregivers' Experiences With Involuntary Oral Care for Individuals With Dementia Within the Dutch Care and Coercion Act.
Jonker M, Engelsma C, Manton DJ … +1 more , Visser A
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 40968709 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Individuals with dementia frequently show care-resistant behaviour toward the provision of oral care. Providing oral care despite care-resistant behaviour is legally considered to be involuntary oral care. In...
BACKGROUND: Individuals with dementia frequently show care-resistant behaviour toward the provision of oral care. Providing oral care despite care-resistant behaviour is legally considered to be involuntary oral care. In the Netherlands, the provision of involuntary oral care to incapacitated individuals with dementia is regulated by the Care and Coercion Act (CCA) since 2020. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess how care providers experienced the CCA in the context of involuntary oral care for individuals with dementia. METHODS: 32 one-on-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with different care providers involved in oral care for incapacitated individuals with dementia. RESULTS: Through the interviews, multiple experiences concerning the CCA were identified. These experiences were related to: (1) awareness of involuntary care, (2) implementation of the law, (3) definitions, (4) circumvention of the law and (5) responsibility for involuntary care. CONCLUSION: The CCA creates awareness about involuntary oral care among care providers. However, many care providers view the legal definitions differently, causing variation in the interpretations and applications of the legislation. Also, several care providers feel that the law could result in quicker discontinuation of oral care provision. Care organisations and policymakers should provide clarity concerning the legal definitions and provide training on legislation and the provision of oral health care in cases of care-resistant behaviour.
Oral Care Experiences of Home-Dwelling Frail Older Adults in Flanders, Belgium-A Qualitative Study.
De Vleeschauwer A, Baele E, Mertens F … +4 more , Hoste N, Poppe L, Pype P, Janssens B
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 40968708 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Frailty has a profound negative impact on the abilities to perform daily oral hygiene and to regularly attend a dental professional. To inform effective oral care and oral health services for older adults,...
INTRODUCTION: Frailty has a profound negative impact on the abilities to perform daily oral hygiene and to regularly attend a dental professional. To inform effective oral care and oral health services for older adults, this research aimed to explore frail, home-dwelling older adults' experiences, needs, and barriers to daily oral hygiene and professional care. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-seven home-dwelling frail older adults in Belgium. Interviews were analysed using a reflexive thematic approach. RESULTS: Three themes were identified: 'importance of oral healthcare'; 'performing daily oral hygiene'; and 'seeking professional care'. All participants confirmed the importance of maintaining good oral health. Nevertheless, daily oral hygiene was often not performed as the latest guidelines recommend. Functional independence was considered an important issue, and participants expressed reluctance to ask home care nurses for help. Opinions on the usefulness of preventive dental visits were mixed. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight a gap between older adults' oral health knowledge or practices and the awareness of its importance. Consequently, efforts are needed to enhance older adults' self-efficacy in oral care. Non-oral healthcare providers could play a key role in encouraging and referring older adults to oral health professionals.
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