[Elderly people and removable partial dentures]

Abstract

The most frequently reported disadvantages of removable partial dentures are the more demanding daily oral hygiene self-care, especially for people who already experience difficulties in self-care, and the possible harmful influence on the remaining dentition. These disadvantages can be expressed in an extreme form in (frail) elderly people. The elderly show relatively large amounts of oral plaque, (root) caries, and periodontal disease. Considerations which may or may not indicate a partial denture for a (frail) elderly person are: the expressed problem and demand for treatment, the general health condition ofthe patient, oral mucosal health, the condition of the opposing jaw, the possible contribution to function and/or aesthetics, the possibilities of oral self-care and/or volunteer aid, the patient's personal adaptability, and possible hazards. Extreme care in subsequent, decisions should be the rule. Key concepts are: explicit demand for treatment, appropriateness, safety, and oral self-care/volunteer aid.