The Aging Dentition

Question 1

what are the different stages of the life course of a dentition?

Answer 1

• primary dentition
• permanent dentition
• partially dentate
• edentulous

Question 2

what is the impact of ageing & systemic disease on dental treatment?

Answer 2

• increased risk of oral disease
• polypharmacy
• impaired ability to co operate
• access to care
• medical conditions complicate & contraindicate dental treatments

Question 3

what does a good quality of life mean for old people?

Answer 3

• having good social relationships
• maintaining social activities & retaining role in society
• having a positive psychological outlook
• having good health & mobility
• enjoy life!

Question 4

what % of over 65s are taking 10 medications or more?

Answer 4

16.4%

Question 5

what importance does maintaining natural teeth have on the aging population?

Answer 5

contributes to a positive body image & self worth!

Question 6

Treatment planning in dementia patients is unique, what should be involved in early stage treatment planning for these patients?

Answer 6

• planning for future as we consider progressive nature of disease
• identify & attempt to retain key teeth
• focus on HIGH QUALITY restorations
• are complex restorative treatments able to be cared for in future
• establish a preventative regime

Question 7

what is involved in the mid-stage treatment planning of dementia patients?

Answer 7

• maintenance & prevention are essential
• difficult co-operation may begin to show
• access becomes more challenging

Question 8

what is involved in the end-stage treatment planning of dementia patients?

Answer 8

• focus on comfort
• moist, clean & healthy mouth that is pain & infection free
• non invasive treatment only

Question 9

How can communication with dementia patients be optimised?

Answer 9

They are still a person!
- approach from front
- break it down into short words & simple sentences
- smile, gentle touch
- quiet, calming environment
- distraction

Question 10

What is the name of the national programme that is in place to promote good oral health for care home residents?

Answer 10

Caring for Smiles

Question 11

What is the most common cause of death in patients with dysphagia associated with neurological impairment?

Answer 11

Aspiration Pneumonia