[Oral health conditions of the elderly at the Lar Samaritano long-term-care facility in São Gonçalo-RJ]

Abstract

With the increase in life expectancy in Brazil, there are increasing numbers of elderly. There is a marked increase in demand for Long-Term-Care Facilities for the elderly in Brazil, but there is little epidemiological data on oral health in such institutions. The objective is to evaluate the oral health of elderly residents in a Long-Term-Care Facility in São Gonçalo city, Rio de Janeiro, examining dental conditions, the use of and need for prostheses and dental treatment. Quantitative research was conducted with functionally dependent and/or independent male and female subjects over 59 years of age, involving data gathering, consulting records, interviews and clinical examinations. DMFT 30.37, predominantly missing teeth and the female population with fewer decayed teeth. Only 2 had excellent hygiene, 25 were good, 17 satisfactory and 14 bad. Tooth mobility was found in 6 elderly though 52 had no mobility, while 32 wore dentures and 26 did not, with women using them more frequently. 49 lacked treatment, mainly women as they were greater in number. The conclusion reached is that Long-Term-Care Facilities need inspection by public and dental authorities, with priority given to dental professionals, in addition to fostering academic activities for undergraduate and postgraduate students.