Caries experience of institutionalized elderly and its association with dementia and functional status

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the caries experience of the elderly residing in residential aged care facilities in Perth, Western Australia, and its association with dementia and functional status. Methods: Oral examinations were conducted in a sample of institutionalized aged persons. This study was carried out over a period of 7 years, between 2002 and 2008. Results: A total of 205 residents were examined. The mean decayed, missing and filled teeth index score was 25.9 for all residents. Residents with dementia did not have significantly different levels of caries experience than those without. The mean number of active caries and retained decayed roots, however, was higher among residents with dementia. There was a significant difference in the mean number of active decay and carious retained roots among residents based on their Activities of Daily Living Oral Health score and their status of assistance received with brushing. Conclusion: Caries experience among the institutionalized elderly is associated with disability, and oral care is lacking among the institutionalized elderly in this study. Appropriate preventive measures (as well as interventional activities) should be undertaken to control oral disease among residential aged care residents.