Assessment of Oral Health in Elders with and without Alzheimer’s Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study

Authors : Ilgın Asena CEBECİ, Damla OZTURK, Basak DOGAN, Nural BEKİROĞLU

Pages : 849-855

Doi:10.33808/clinexphealthsci.983730

View : 17 | Download : 11

Publication Date : 2021-10-26

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: Assessment and comparison of oral health status in elders with and without Alzheimer`s disease. Methods: This age and gender matched cross-sectional study included participants from an Alzheimer’s day care center, and a nursing home. Mental state, oral and periodontal health, Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(GOHAI);, unstimulated salivary flow rate insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(USFR);, and other dry mouth conditions were examined. Group comparisons, and correlation analysis were performed. Results: Thirty-six elders with AD and 37 elders without AD were included. Elders had similar GOHAI scores, USFR level insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(p>0.05);. Elders with AD had lower probing depth insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(PD); and clinical attachment loss insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(CAL);, and higher presence of no periodontitis than the elders without AD insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(p<0.05);. However elders with AD had higher use of mouth drying medication and presence of halitosis complaint than the elders without AD. The higher age of elders with AD was related with worsening gingival index, and bleeding on probing conditions. Also poor periodontal health conditions of bleeding on probing, PD and CALwere associated with the poor GOHAI Behavioral Effects score in elders with AD. Conclusion: Personalized care and supporting oral care education of the caregivers could maintain the oral health of elders with AD.
Keywords : Alzheimer disease, oral health, quality of life, dementia, periodontitis