Gerodontology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Perceptions of Visiting Oral Health Service Providers: Using the Q Method and Focusing on Suggestions for the Role of Dental Hygienists in a Community.
Lee SH, Bae SM, Shin BM … +1 more , Shin SJ
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40418182 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify the types and characteristics of providers' (dental hygienists and caregivers) perceptions of visiting oral health care services and explore the contents of visiting oral health ca...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify the types and characteristics of providers' (dental hygienists and caregivers) perceptions of visiting oral health care services and explore the contents of visiting oral health care services and the social role of dental hygienists in promoting the health of older adults in the upcoming post-aged society. METHODS: This study was conducted using the Q method. The Q sample utilised the same 32 statements selected by Lee et al. (2021), who analysed the perceptions of Korean older adults on home-visiting oral health care services. The P sample was randomly selected and included 16 dental hygienists and 16 caregivers who provide oral hygiene care for older adults in the community. The 32 participants were asked to rank the statements in the Q-set based on their level of agreement. The Q-sorted data were analysed using the PC-QUANL programme. RESULTS: A four-factor structure with five factor types was identified, explaining 50.9% of the variance. Analysis of provider perception types revealed differences regarding who should deliver oral health care to older adults-dental teams including dentists and hygienists or hygienists alone-and in service content and focus. However, most providers agreed that dental hygienists should accurately assess older adults' oral health needs and deliver appropriate care. CONCLUSION: To promote the health of older adults in the future, dental hygienists should be recognised as essential providers in community-based care systems and supported by national policy to deliver accessible, collaborative and preventive services.
The Impact of Dietary Intake and Nutritional Status on the Oral Health of Older Adults Living in Care Homes: A Scoping Review.
Sallam A, McCorry NK, Harvey M … +11 more , Heilmann A, Lappin C, McEvoy C, Mitchell G, Watson S, O'Neill C, Tsakos G, Woodside J, Brocklehurst P, Campbell KBD, McKenna G
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40384608 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To review the literature on the relationship between oral health, dietary intake, and nutritional status in older adults in care homes, identifying research gaps. BACKGROUND: Many older adults in care homes r...
OBJECTIVES: To review the literature on the relationship between oral health, dietary intake, and nutritional status in older adults in care homes, identifying research gaps. BACKGROUND: Many older adults in care homes retain natural teeth but face oral health issues due to challenges in maintaining hygiene and limited dental care access. While the provided diet aims to prevent frailty, it may contain high levels of sugars and fermentable carbohydrates, which can contribute to oral health issues such as dental caries and periodontal disease. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and EMBASE were searched to answer, "What is known about the relationship between dietary intake, nutritional status and oral health in older adults in care homes?." RESULTS: Forty-nine studies (1989-2024) addressed this relationship, with most studies being cross-sectional (n = 43), including two qualitative and one mixed-method study; six were longitudinal, including one interventional. Findings highlighted the negative impact of oral health problems-xerostomia, dysphagia, and chewing issues-on dietary intake and nutritional status, while interventions like denture provision and professional tooth brushing had positive effects. Longitudinal studies emphasised the harm of sugar intake on oral health, with additional factors like dementia, resident dependency, and staffing issues adversely affecting both oral health and nutrition. CONCLUSIONS: This review highlights the complex relationship between oral health, diet, and nutrition in care homes, emphasising gaps in research on the impact of dietary intake, particularly sugar consumption, on oral health, as well as limitations in study designs.
Effect of Regional Deprivation and Dental Care Resources on the Unmet Dental Care Needs due to Cost of Older Individuals in South Korea.
Lim JY, Lee JM, Nam HS
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40318193 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To provide policy-relevant evidence to reduce oral health disparities and improve dental care accessibility by considering characteristics of urban and rural areas. BACKGROUND: Individual and regional factors...
OBJECTIVES: To provide policy-relevant evidence to reduce oral health disparities and improve dental care accessibility by considering characteristics of urban and rural areas. BACKGROUND: Individual and regional factors influence dental care access. Regional poverty and limited dental resources among older adults may contribute to unmet dental care needs due to cost. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A multilevel logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the association between regional factors (regional deprivation, number of dentists per 10,000 and number of dental offices per 100,000) and unmet dental care needs due to cost. The analysis was adjusted for individual factors, such as sex, education, marital status, household income, subjective health status, chewing difficulty and limited daily activities, as determined by the 2021 Korean Community Health Survey (KCHS; n = 47,802). RESULTS: The prevalence of unmet dental care needs due to cost was 4.94% in urban and 4.80% in rural older adults. Individuals who lived in higher regional deprivation (poorer regions) were less likely to experience unmet dental care needs due to cost (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.47-0.94) only in rural areas. Individuals residing in areas with a higher number of dentists per 10,000 were more likely to experience unmet dental care needs due to cost in urban (OR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.01-4.73) and rural (OR = 1.97; 95% CI = 1.16-3.34). Household income and oral health status were the strongest predictors of unmet dental care needs due to cost. CONCLUSIONS: The influence of regional poverty, dentist distribution and individual factors should be considered in developing policies to reduce the unmet dental care needs of older Koreans.
Oral Health and Dental Health Care Experiences of Patients From the Netherlands With Parkinson's Disease: A Qualitative Study.
Verhoeff MC, Pigeaud KE, Tholen DM … +2 more , Rezk M, Lobbezoo F
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40318189 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease patients have poorer oral health than their healthy peers. Insight into their own experiences is vital for improving dental care. OBJECTIVE: To better understand the experiences of Parkins...
BACKGROUND: Parkinson's disease patients have poorer oral health than their healthy peers. Insight into their own experiences is vital for improving dental care. OBJECTIVE: To better understand the experiences of Parkinson's disease patients' with their oral health and dental care. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eleven semistructured interviews with Parkinson's disease patients from the Netherlands were conducted. Data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. RESULTS: Participants' narratives revealed challenges in accessing dental treatment, primarily due to motor and communication difficulties. They also highlighted organisational barriers, such as appointment scheduling and awareness of care practitioners about Parkinson's disease patients' oral health. Furthermore, they expressed the urgent need for Parkinson's disease-specific dental education to (dental) care practitioners and research initiatives that focus on Parkinson's disease patients' oral health and dental care. CONCLUSION: Parkinson's disease patients' experiences highlight the need for tailored care interventions and improvements in dental care systems.
Dietary n-6 and n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Tooth Loss in Community-Dwelling Older Japanese People.
Yoshihara A, Iwasaki M, Suwama K … +4 more , Odajima A, Kabasawa K, Ito Y, Tanaka J
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40183691 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the associations between baseline n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels and the number of teeth lost subsequently over 5 years. BACKGROUND: The relationship between n-3 and n-6...
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the associations between baseline n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid levels and the number of teeth lost subsequently over 5 years. BACKGROUND: The relationship between n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and tooth loss remains unclear. Previous studies have been limited to older individuals aged 70 and above, and no research has been conducted that takes into account a broader age range. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Participants (n = 1534) attended both the baseline survey and the follow-up survey conducted 5 years later. Poisson regression analyses were conducted after converting the number of teeth present at baseline into an adjustment variable. The dependent variable was the number of lost teeth over a five-year period. The exposure variables were each quintile of self-reported n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake levels (g/1000 kcal) and the ratio of self-reported n-6 to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid intake levels (n-6:n-3 ratio) adjusted by age, sex, smoking, use of dental floss or interdental brush and history of diabetes mellitus. RESULTS: Higher n-3 fatty acid intake (5th quintile, incidence rate ratio (IRR): 0.21, p < 0.001) and a lower dietary n-6:n-3 ratio (≤ 4.0) significantly lower tooth loss risk. Conversely, higher n-6 intake (5th quintile, IRR: 1.32, p = 0.006) was associated with the likelihood of tooth loss. Younger age, flossing and adequate chewing ability were associated with better dental outcomes. CONCLUSION: Balanced dietary intake, particularly higher n-3 fatty acids and a lower n-6:n-3 ratio, helps preserve dental health by reducing tooth loss risk.
Subjectively Low Oral Function Is Associated With Physical Frailty and Polypharmacy in Community-Dwelling Older Adults.
Hirata A, Ishizaka M, Yakabi A … +4 more , Kobayashi K, Ito A, Hara T, Urano T
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40163499 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To examine each Kihon Checklist (KCL) oral function item, physical function, and the number of medications and describe associations between KCL oral function, frailty, sarcopenia, and polypharmacy. METHODS: P...
OBJECTIVE: To examine each Kihon Checklist (KCL) oral function item, physical function, and the number of medications and describe associations between KCL oral function, frailty, sarcopenia, and polypharmacy. METHODS: Participants were 318 community-dwelling older adults (78.6 ± 6.9 years). The number of medications, KCL, the Japanese version of the Cardiovascular Health Study (J-CHS), grip strength, gait speed, and skeletal muscle index were measured. Analyses used cross-tabulation. Logistic regression modelled the presence of low oral function. RESULTS: Of the three oral function questions on the KCL, 34.9% of participants answered "yes" to Q13 on mastication, 24.8% answered "yes" to Q14 on swallowing, and 31.4% answered "yes" to Q15 on dry mouth. A total of 25.2% of the participants had low oral function according to the KCL. More of those with low oral function had polypharmacy. Oral function was not associated with sarcopenia. Physical frailty was associated with low oral function. Logistic regression analysis with oral function as the dependent variable and age, sex, polypharmacy, physical frailty, and sarcopenia status as the independent variables showed that physical frailty was associated with it. CONCLUSION: Older people who are physically frail and taking multiple medications are likely also to have oral frailty.
Accuracy and Reliability of Intraoral 3D Scans for Diagnostic Evaluations in Nursing Home Residents.
Kharbot B, Riegel M, Schwendicke F … +2 more , Paris S, Göstemeyer G
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40163462 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of intraoral 3D scans for assessing the oral health of older patients living in nursing homes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One examiner recorded missing teeth, restorations...
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the accuracy and reliability of intraoral 3D scans for assessing the oral health of older patients living in nursing homes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One examiner recorded missing teeth, restorations, caries lesions and oral hygiene (Geriatric-Debris-Index Simplified [GDI-S] ≥ 1.9) in nursing home residents using visual-tactile diagnostics (reference test) and afterwards obtained intraoral scans with an intraoral scanner (TRIOS 4, 3Shape). Two other independent investigators and the clinical examiner assessed only the scans to delineate the same diagnostic outcomes. For these outcomes, we assessed accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and the Area-under-the-Receiver-Operating-Characteristics Curve (AUROC). Kappa values (κ) were calculated to evaluate inter-examiner and intra-examiner reliability after re-examination by all examiners after a minimum interval of 3 weeks. RESULTS: Forty-three partially dentate patients (65-95 years of age) in need of care living in four nursing homes with a total of 486 teeth (mean [SD]: 11 [9] teeth per patient) were examined. Scans were perfectly accurate for detecting missing teeth (AUROC [sensitivity/specificity]: 1 [1/1]) and showed high accuracy for detecting restorations (0.96 [0.93/0.98]), too. Accuracy was lower to detect caries (0.77 [0.58/0.97]) and insufficient for oral hygiene (0.76 [0.54/0.99]). Agreement between examiners was perfect for missing teeth (κ: 1), very good for the detection of restorations (0.94), and good for caries or insufficient oral hygiene (0.73 and 0.72, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Scans were suitable for basic diagnostic evaluations but showed considerable shortcomings in detecting caries and poor oral hygiene. Assessing scans was relatively reliable. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Using scans may allow telemedical assessments of nursing home residents, but users should be aware of the differential accuracy for different diagnostic targets.
Policy Options to Complement the New Canadian Dental Program Enabling High Quality Care for People With Disabilities and Older Adults.
Davari LD, Morris M, Allison PJ
Gerodontology · 2025 Sep · PMID 40163434 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The newly announced Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) particularly aims to reduce financial barriers to dental care for individuals living below a family income threshold. The Canadian government has also laun...
BACKGROUND: The newly announced Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) particularly aims to reduce financial barriers to dental care for individuals living below a family income threshold. The Canadian government has also launched an "Oral Health Access Fund" to support projects aiming to address financial barriers to dental care for older adults, those with disabilities and other groups. Evidence from programs implemented elsewhere in the world could inform policy decisions and address such non-financial barriers for older Canadians and those with disabilities. AIM: To identify dental programs and policies in OECD countries focusing on people with disabilities and older people, and to outline how they might be applied to the Canadian context. METHODS: The strategy for this narrative literature review comprised a combination of Medical Subject Headings (MeSh) or their equivalent, title/abstract keywords, truncations, and Boolean operators. Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL and Scopus were used. The searches were limited to English language publications involving programs and policies in all OECD countries. All searches ran from inception to January 25, 2023, with no restrictions on publication time. RESULTS: The search identified 129 articles eligible for review. Findings were categorized as (1) interventions at the institutional-level (subdivided into patient-, professional- and community-focused programs) and (2) interventions at the governmental-level (subdivided into universal, population-specific, and community-based programs). Evidence suggests that targeted, integrated coaching or education programs for oral health care are beneficial, especially when programs are constantly evaluated and improved. Programs with a unified network system that integrates various relevant organizational and health domains have demonstrated to be most effective in the improvement of oral health care and overall health. Dental and medical healthcare workers play a crucial role in improving oral health outcomes and need motivation and fair compensation when caring for older people. CONCLUSIONS: There is limited quality evidence supporting approaches to improving oral health care and oral health for older people and those with disabilities. It is important for policymakers and stakeholders to consider programmes from other countries when expanding the CDCP.
The Effect of an Individually Tailored Oral Health Intervention on Dental Plaque and Caries Among Family Caregivers and Their Care Recipients.
Annina S, Irma N, Tarja V … +4 more , Sohvi K, Roosa-Maria S, Ursula S, Suominen AL
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 40129259 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an individually tailored oral health intervention on the oral hygiene and health of family caregivers and their care recipients aged 60 years and older. BACKGROUND: O...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an individually tailored oral health intervention on the oral hygiene and health of family caregivers and their care recipients aged 60 years and older. BACKGROUND: Older adults are retaining their natural teeth longer. The compromised condition of teeth and oral health increases the risk of the deterioration of functional ability. Focused early intervention plays a significant role in preventing oral health problems in the future. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a six-months intervention study with a six-month follow-up and was part of the LENTO (Lifestyle, Nutrition and Oral health of caregivers) study. The sample consisted of family caregivers and their care recipients living in Eastern Finland. At baseline, the total sample comprised 239 (124 family caregivers and 115 care recipients) who were randomly allocated to either an intervention or a control group. In the intervention group, family caregivers received a tailored oral health intervention. RESULTS: The number of teeth with plaque decreased among family caregivers (β = -2.1, CI -4.0-(-1.2), p = 0.015) and their care recipients (β = -0.6, CI -0.0-(-2.1), p = 0.050). The number of teeth with caries decreased among family caregivers who participated in the intervention (β = -0.6, CI -1.1-(-0.1), p = 0.015), but not among their care recipients. CONCLUSION: Our study shows that tailored information effectively promotes oral cleanliness among older adults. Furthermore, the number of teeth with caries decreased among family caregivers. It can therefore be recommended that such information and education on oral hygiene be implemented in healthcare systems in general. Furthermore, an interprofessional approach is necessary to promote better oral health in this vulnerable group of older adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04003493. Registered on June 28, 2019.
Oral Health Management by Dental Hygienists and Older Adults' Food Forms in Long-Term Care Facilities: A 1-Year Longitudinal Study.
Inamoto K, Ozaki K, Watanabe Y … +8 more , Yamazaki Y, Ohara Y, Iwasaki M, Hirano H, Tsuneishi M, Kodama T, Yoshida M, Minakuchi S
Gerodontology · 2025 Sep · PMID 40105273 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To date, no studies have directly investigated the association between oral health management (OHM) and food forms. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between OHM by dental hygienists a...
OBJECTIVE: To date, no studies have directly investigated the association between oral health management (OHM) and food forms. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between OHM by dental hygienists and food forms in older adults admitted to long-term care facilities (LTCFs). BACKGROUND: OHM involves oral health maintenance by dental hygienists and may prevent weight loss and pneumonia in older adults admitted to LTCFs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Older adults in LTCFs in Japan (n = 273) who participated in baseline (2018) and follow-up (2019) surveys were evaluated. Basic characteristics, medical history, OHM status, oral maintenance management status, food forms, and oral conditions were investigated at baseline. After 1 year, a follow-up survey was conducted only on food items. Furthermore, factors associated with the maintenance or improvement in food forms after 1 year were examined using binomial logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Overall, 273 (69.2%) older adults in LTCFs required OHM by dental hygienists during the follow-up year, of whom 142 (52.0%) received OHM and 88 maintained or improved their regular diet. The analyses revealed that the maintenance or improvement in food forms after 1 year was significantly associated with OHM implementation (odds ratio: 2.01, 95% confidence interval: 1.03-3.90). CONCLUSION: OHM in older adults in Japanese LTCFs was associated with the maintenance or improvement in food forms, emphasising the importance of OHM for these individuals. OHM may also maintain or improve eating and swallowing functions, improving nutritional status.
An exuberant case of uremic stomatitis in an older adult.
Ponce MF, Gilligan G, de Andrade BAB … +1 more , de Arruda JAA
Gerodontology · 2025 Mar · PMID 40019941 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To report the case of an older adult with uremic stomatitis. BACKGROUND: Uremic stomatitis is a rare condition, with only 57 cases documented in the literature. Gerodontologists may be unfamiliar with this con...
OBJECTIVE: To report the case of an older adult with uremic stomatitis. BACKGROUND: Uremic stomatitis is a rare condition, with only 57 cases documented in the literature. Gerodontologists may be unfamiliar with this condition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 71-year-old male patient, undergoing oncological treatment and with chronic kidney disease (CKD), presented with an asymptomatic, exuberant tongue lesion which had persisted for 3 months. The lesion was characterised by a white-yellowish plaque with a rough, warty surface covering the entire dorsum and lateral borders of the tongue. Blood tests revealed relatively high urea (130 mg/dL) and creatinine (2.22 mg/dL) levels. RESULTS: Clinical, biochemical and histopathological data were consistent with uremic stomatitis. The patient passed away shortly after diagnosis. CONCLUSION: This report documents the fifth case of uremic stomatitis in older adults in their 70s. Prompt diagnosis of this condition in individuals with CKD is critically important because it can alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life and extend survival.
Lateral periodontal cyst in an interdental molar site: Novel presentation in a geriatric patient.
Brooks JK, Portillo N, Bhatti AK … +2 more , Parsa A, Basile JR
Gerodontology · 2025 Mar · PMID 40019940 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This report describes an unusual case of a lateral periodontal cyst (LPC) residing between the roots of a mandibular first and second molar. BACKGROUND: The LPC is a developmental odontogenic cyst, the majorit...
OBJECTIVE: This report describes an unusual case of a lateral periodontal cyst (LPC) residing between the roots of a mandibular first and second molar. BACKGROUND: The LPC is a developmental odontogenic cyst, the majority situated along the lateral roots of the mandibular canines and premolars. The occurrence of an LPC solely confined to the molar region is extremely rare. Limited information regarding the LPC has appeared in the geriatric literature. PATIENT PRESENTATION: A unilocular cyst-like lesion was incidentally discovered on extraoral and intraoral radiographic examinations involving a 68-year-old patient. It was initially considered an infected odontogenic keratocyst or unicystic ameloblastoma. RESULTS: Histologic examination of the excised specimen revealed a thin cuboidal epithelial lining with focal nodular thickenings and underlying fibrovascular connective tissue wall. The lesion was diagnosed as an LPC. At a 6-month follow-up, the patient has remained asymptomatic and exhibited radiographic osseous regeneration. CONCLUSIONS: The LPC should be added to the differential diagnosis of developmental odontogenic cysts found in the inter-molar region. A preoperative cone beam computed tomography scan may be helpful to optimise the surgical approach. Timely removal of any suspected cystic lesion, particularly in the context of infection in an older patient, may reduce postoperative sequelae and rule out malignancy.
Caregivers' knowledge, attitudes and behaviour towards the daily oral care of bedridden patients in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
Pattanaporn K, Kaewduangsaeng A, Panich I … +3 more , Limpaphan N, Lakboon W, Brondani M
Gerodontology · 2025 Mar · PMID 40019939 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study are to explore caregivers' knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards oral care for bedridden patients and to examine the relationship among those three variables. METHODS: Parti...
OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study are to explore caregivers' knowledge, attitudes and behaviours towards oral care for bedridden patients and to examine the relationship among those three variables. METHODS: Participants were 24 caregivers from Muang District, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand, who agreed to be part of the study. Data were collected in January 2020 via a 24-item questionnaire covering knowledge such as understanding what can cause and prevent oral problems, attitudes such as feelings towards providing oral care and behaviours such as actions taken to clean the patient's mouth. Caregivers were also interviewed using a semi-structured guide to further explore their oral health care knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Descriptive analysis and Chi-square correlation were used to analyse quantitative data. Thematic analysis was used to explore the interview data. RESULTS: The caregivers' roles were all informal, with an average age of 54.2 years and almost all were female (91.7%). They cared for bedridden patients who were on average 14 years older, comprised mostly of their parents (54.1%) and were partially dentate (79.2%); half were males. Although most caregivers (87.5%) did consider sugar as likely causing tooth decay, one in three did not think that fluoride toothpaste could help to prevent dental decay. None of the edentulous patients and 42.1% of the partially dentate patients had their mouths cleaned by their caregivers daily. Knowledge was not associated with the oral health care behaviour of the caregiver (P = .43). Financial constraints, limited knowledge and personal beliefs contributed to caregivers' behaviour towards oral health care for their bedridden patients. CONCLUSIONS: Knowledge remains unassociated with behaviour. Caregiver education and support are needed to maintain good oral health care practices for bedridden patients.
Strawberry gingivitis as an initial presentation of granulomatosis with polyangiitis in an older adult.
de Arruda JAA, Drumond VZ, Fontes MD … +3 more , Ventura JVL, Tenório JR, de Andrade BAB
Gerodontology · 2025 Mar · PMID 40019932 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To describe a rare case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in an older adult in light of the existing literature. BACKGROUND: GPA is a potentially life-threatening multisystem necrotising vasculitis, ch...
OBJECTIVE: To describe a rare case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) in an older adult in light of the existing literature. BACKGROUND: GPA is a potentially life-threatening multisystem necrotising vasculitis, characterised by a spectrum of oral mucosal lesions that present diagnostic challenges. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 76-year-old female patient presented with asymptomatic granular and haemorrhage swelling ("strawberry" gingivitis) affecting the upper and lower anterior and posterior gingivae. Cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) was positive. Concurrent kidney lesions were diagnosed. RESULTS: Histopathological examination revealed a pseudoepitheliomatous proliferation with perivascular inflammation and a dense eosinophilic infiltrate. After a 5-year follow-up, the patient showed no signs of recurrence. A literature review performed using PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus identified 22 documented cases of GPA-related oral lesions in older adults, with equal sex distribution and 63.6% occurring in the seventh decade of life. CONCLUSION: Early recognition and diagnosis of "strawberry" gingivitis in older adults with GPA are crucial, as these oral manifestations may be the initial presentation of the disease.
Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw in an older patient with multiple myeloma.
de Freitas LC, de Aquino Silva VS, Miyazawa M … +3 more , de Oliveira CE, Sperandio FF, Hanemann JAC
Gerodontology · 2025 Mar · PMID 40019925 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This article reports a case of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) associated with multiple myeloma (MM). BACKGROUND: Bisphosphonates (BPs) are constantly used as part of the treatment for MM....
OBJECTIVE: This article reports a case of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) associated with multiple myeloma (MM). BACKGROUND: Bisphosphonates (BPs) are constantly used as part of the treatment for MM. The main adverse effects of bisphosphonates are renal insufficiency and medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 67-year-old female with a previous diagnosis of MM and undergoing current receiving intravenous injections of pamidronate underwent a tooth extraction and subsequently developed MRONJ. RESULTS: MRONJ was managed with clindamycin, surgical removal of bony sequestrum and curettage. At 3 years of follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic with no clinical changes and panoramic radiography without evidence of recurrence. CONCLUSION: Management of patients under antiresorptive drugs who require invasive dental procedures is challenging. Therefore, interprofessional collaboration, especially between the general practitioner and oncologist and/or haematologist, is essential to reach the best clinical approach and reduce the risk of MRONJ.
Correction to Proof of Concept Design for a Toothbrush With On-Board Vacuum to Reduce Oral Aspirates.
Gerodontology · 2025 Jun · PMID 39992754 · Full text
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A comparative analysis of oral hygiene in nursing homes with and without a structured oral healthcare programme.
Janssens LE, Temmerman E, Maertens J … +3 more , De Visschere L, Petrovic M, Janssens BE
Gerodontology · 2025 Mar · PMID 39959995 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to compare the oral hygiene (dental and denture plaque) among residents in nursing homes that have implemented an oral healthcare programme (Gerodent) with that of residents in n...
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to compare the oral hygiene (dental and denture plaque) among residents in nursing homes that have implemented an oral healthcare programme (Gerodent) with that of residents in nursing homes that provide standard oral care. BACKGROUND: Gerodent is a comprehensive oral healthcare programme introduced in 2010, which includes mobile on-site professional oral care. Sixty-two nursing homes have actively implemented Gerodent between 8 and 12 years preceding this study. METHODS: A cross-sectional study compared a cluster random sample of Gerodent nursing home residents to residents of matched control nursing homes. Residents' dental (Turesky Index) and denture plaque (Augsburger & Elahi Index) scores were collected as primary outcome variables. Data on tongue plaque, oral hygiene aids and demographic characteristics were recorded. Data were collected between 2020 and 2023. Generalised estimating equations were used to compare the oral hygiene between both study groups. RESULTS: Residents in the Gerodent group (n = 171) had significantly lower mean dental and denture plaque scores than their counterparts in the non-Gerodent group (n = 159; dental plaque 1.68 vs. 2.71; RR 0.32; 95% CI: 0.23-0.44; and denture plaque 1.60 vs. 2.21; RR 0.55; 95% CI: 0.42-0.72). While basic oral hygiene aids were available to most residents in both groups, denture brushes were more common in the Gerodent group. CONCLUSION: Residents in Gerodent nursing homes had significantly better oral hygiene than those older people residing in non-Gerodent nursing homes, although plaque scores were insufficient to prevent oral conditions. Oral health professionals need to work with and provide ongoing support in long-term care facilities to further improve oral hygiene.
Self-Reported Items That Predict the Risk of Oral Health Deterioration and the Need for Dental Referral in Older People: A Systematic Review.
de Jong MHS, van der Maarel-Wierink CD, Ket JCF … +2 more , Jerković-Ćosić K, Rozema FR
Gerodontology · 2025 Sep · PMID 39934979 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Detecting deterioration in frail oral community-dwelling older people's oral health may be delayed as a consequence of decreased visits to oral health care professionals. Older people are becoming increasingl...
BACKGROUND: Detecting deterioration in frail oral community-dwelling older people's oral health may be delayed as a consequence of decreased visits to oral health care professionals. Older people are becoming increasingly dependent on medical care and visit other healthcare professionals, highlighting the importance of interprofessional collaboration. There is a need for an easy-to-use, time- and cost-efficient oral health assessment tool for non-oral healthcare professionals. This systematic review aimed to identify self-reported items that predict the risk of oral health deterioration in older people to inform such a tool. METHOD: The OVID/Medline, Embase, EBSCO/CINAHL, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched. An additional reference check was performed to ensure that no records were missing. The primary outcome was predictive value, defined as the probability of a specific question or self-reported item predicting the risk of oral health deterioration or the need for dental referral. When available, the data were presented as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV). RESULTS: The initial search resulted in 2471 records. Eleven articles met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. A high predictive value for oral health deterioration was observed for the self-reported items: "Are you generally pleased with your mouth and teeth?" (specificity: 93.0%), "Would you say your mouth health is generally good?" (specificity: 95.2%), "Does your mouth feel dry?" (specificity: 82.7%), and "Do you have regular dental checkups?" (sensitivity: 90.0%-100%); and "Do you have tooth and/or mouth problems that make it hard to eat?" (specificity: 92.0). CONCLUSION: A screening tool for use by non-oral health professionals, that consists of 2-4 highly predictive self-reported items, such as dry mouth, satisfaction with oral health, recent dental visits and food consumption problems, could be used for early detection and timely referral of older people at risk of oral health deterioration.
Implementation and Acceptance of Oral Health Assessment Tools in Residential Aged Care Facilities: A Scoping Review.
Pritchard L, Burden KJ, Carlson-Jones W … +2 more , Stormon N, Do L
Gerodontology · 2025 Dec · PMID 39934968 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The global ageing population has increased demand for healthcare services in residential aged care (RAC), with oral health recognised as crucial for overall well-being. Despite this, the implementation of ora...
BACKGROUND: The global ageing population has increased demand for healthcare services in residential aged care (RAC), with oral health recognised as crucial for overall well-being. Despite this, the implementation of oral health assessment tools in RAC faces significant challenges. OBJECTIVE: This scoping review explored the implementation and acceptance of oral health assessment tools in RAC facilities, identifying key barriers and facilitators influencing their adoption by non-dental healthcare professionals. METHODS: Five databases were searched, including Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Medline OVID and CINAHL, with a focus on oral health assessment tools utilised by non-dental healthcare professionals in residential aged care. The review adhered to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Methodology and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Scoping Review guidelines, with data extraction guided by the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services framework, focusing on evidence, context and facilitation. RESULTS: The review included 26 studies on the implementation of oral health assessment tools in residential aged care facilities, highlighting diverse barriers and facilitators impacting tool adoption by non-dental professionals. Key barriers included insufficient training, high staff turnover and inconsistent prioritisation of oral health across facilities. In contrast, facilitators involved targeted in-service training and the presence of oral health champions to support tool usage. Despite the variety of tools identified, none of the studies employed an implementation science framework. CONCLUSIONS: There is a need to incorporate implementation science to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of oral health assessment tools in RAC settings. Addressing the identified barriers and using facilitators could improve the adoption and integration of oral health assessment tools, ultimately enhancing residents' oral health and well-being.
Systematic Reviews on the Management of Xerostomia and Hyposalivation-An Umbrella Review.
Conte DB, Marquezzan ME, Schneider LR … +4 more , Gauer APM, Cattapan L, Corralo VDS, Rodrigues-Junior SA
Gerodontology · 2025 Jun · PMID 39838537 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Dry mouth is moderately prevalent in the older population. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological alternatives have been assessed to manage its manifestation. This umbrella review synthesised the evidence...
INTRODUCTION: Dry mouth is moderately prevalent in the older population. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological alternatives have been assessed to manage its manifestation. This umbrella review synthesised the evidence on approaches to managing xerostomia and hyposalivation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We searched for systematic reviews of interventions to manage dry mouth in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, EMBASE, PubMed, Prospero and DARE databases (up to September 2023). References were managed and selected by reading titles and abstracts using Rayyan QCRI. Selection of studies, data extraction and methodological quality assessment (AMSTAR 2) were conducted independently, in duplicate. Data were extracted to a previously tested form that included information about dry mouth causes, interventions, outcomes and findings. RESULTS: There were 3323 records. At the end of the selection process, 48 studies were included and had data extracted. Only three high-quality systematic reviews were found to support methods for managing dry mouth. Limited evidence suggests that topical therapies offer significant palliative or stimulating effects for relieving dry mouth symptoms. Furthermore, low-quality evidence indicates a slight increase in saliva production with acupuncture, dry mouth prevention with amifostine, and saliva stimulation using pilocarpine in patients who have undergone head and neck radiotherapy. CONCLUSION: Salivary substitutes and stimulants mostly acted as moisturisers and some as saliva stimulants, with short-term effect. More than 80% of the reviews were appraised as 'critically low' quality. Well-designed and well-reported systematic reviews are still needed to increase the level of evidence on dry mouth management methods. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: Prospero Registration CRD42022325854.
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