Differences in the oral health status and oral hygiene practices according to the extent of post‐stroke sequelae

Abstract

Oral health and hygiene are crucial parameters in stroke patients. However, few studies have evaluated the oral health status and oral hygiene practices according to the level of function in stroke patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the oral health status and oral hygiene practices according to ambulation and personal hygiene levels in patients with stroke. Data from the fifth (2010-2012) and sixth (2013-2015) editions of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) for 6 years were combined. A total of 700 stroke patients were enrolled in our study. Subjective oral health was significantly poorer in patients who experienced a moderate problem with walking (adjusted OR [AOR], 1.68; 95% CI, 1.21-2.33) and bed-bound patients (AOR, 2.92; 95% CI, 1.01-8.44) than in patients who could walk without difficulty. Patients who were unable to bathe or dress independently exhibited a significantly higher risk of dental caries than did those who could perform the same activities unassisted. The probability of brushing teeth ≥2 times daily was 69% lower in bed-bound patients (AOR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.11-0.87) than in patients who could walk without difficulty and 76% lower in patients who were unable to bathe or dress independently (AOR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.09-0.62) than in those who could perform the same activities without difficulty. There were differences in oral health status and oral hygiene practices, according to ambulation level and functional independence, in the stroke patient group. These results indicate the need for oral care for stroke patients who exhibit ambulatory and functional limitations.

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Oral Health Status, Salivary Gland Function, and Oxidative Stress in the Saliva of Patients with Subacute Phase of Stroke: A Case-Control Study

“…Previous studies indicate a link between oral health and general condition of stroke patients. It has been demonstrated that subjective oral health was significantly poorer in stroke cases (such as tooth loss and dental caries experience), according to ambulation level and functional independence [23]. Additionally, some studies have shown a relationship between periodontal disease and the occurrence of strokes [24].…”

Mutually Risk Roles of Oral Cleanliness and Stroke-associated Pneumonia in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…Therefore, caries is likely the cause of poor oral health. Comparatively, this situation is even worse in stroke patients [35]. From the results above, dental caries plays an important negative role (OR = 1.292) in the abnormal oral cleanliness of acute ischemic stroke patients (Fig.…”

Oral health related quality of life in stroke survivors at community-based rehabilitation centre: A pilot study

“…This could be attributed to the fact that stroke survivors who had undergone rehabilitation treatment and had higher functional levels enjoyed a better oral health status and OHR-QoL. 31 Most patients reported high confidence despite restrictions on their participation in social activities. However, only a minority of them complained about eating difficulties, most probably arising from oro-facial muscle weaknesses.…”