Shortcomings of prosthodontic rehabilitation of patients living in long‐term care facilities

Abstract

Removable dentures are a non-invasive, cost-effective prosthodontic solution for the reduced dentition. Their intended purpose is the rehabilitation of harmonious oral function and aesthetics on a long-term basis. The prevalence of removable dentures among patients of advanced age is high and the quality of the dentures is often poor. The aim of this study was to find the most important shortcomings of removable dentures and address the main targets for improving the quality of prosthodontic rehabilitation. The records from dental check-ups in Austrian residential homes were analysed retrospectively. Dental anamnesis questionnaires and data from the clinical examinations of 105 denture wearers were analysed. The functional condition and retention of 192 dentures had been assessed, as well as the impact of the dentures on the intra-oral tissues. Insufficient denture retention was very common, particularly in the lower jaw (56·0%). Problems with the masticatory function were reported by 26.7% of the denture wearers, 11·4% were dissatisfied with the denture aesthetics, and 4·8% had difficulties with phonetics. Traumatic ulcers were found in 18·1%. Cracks, broken pieces (6·3%) or missing denture teeth (2·1%) were rare. It may be assumed that the findings of the present study also apply to a great percentage of community-dwelling seniors. The most important issues in prosthodontic rehabilitation with removable dentures are denture retention and masticatory function. Regular dental check-ups, denture adjustment and, when necessary, relining can maintain the primary denture quality and prevent damages of the oral tissues caused by ill-fitting dentures.

Medical Diagnoses, Mode of Residence, and Dental Treatment Demand under General Anesthesia in Special Needs Adults in Innsbruck, Austria. A Retrospective Breakdown of Four and a Half Years

“…Some previous studies have levelled criticism against the practice of oral health care at public nursing homes. Severe shortcomings of tooth and denture hygiene and the state of restorative and/or prosthodontic rehabilitation in geriatric samples at a mean age of >80 years were reviewed [27][28][29]. Staff shortage, an extensive workload, and insufficient training in oral care might account for these deficiencies at public foster homes.…”

Quality of life related to tooth loss and prosthetic replacements among persons with dependency and functional limitations

“…Additionally, a high percentage of the dentures were in poor condition [26]. It is a common misconception that edentulous people who use dentures do not need dental care [39]. Dentures are exposed to abrasion and the surrounding tissues are exposed to traumatic stress and microorganisms.…”

Dental treatment under general anesthesia in adults with special needs at the University Hospital of Dental Prosthetics and Restorative Dentistry of Innsbruck, Austria: a retrospective study of 12 years

“…One study in around 680 home residents (mean age over 85 years) found a mean DMFT score of 25.6 ± 4.2 and shortcomings of oral care and prosthodontic rehabilitation [19]. Two investigations assessed the extent of denture hygiene (in relation to cognitive status) and denture retention in residents of retirement homes (mean age over 80 years) and also identified a need for improvement of oral care and denture maintenance/fitting [20,21]. The individuals admitted to DGA at the Hospital of Innsbruck are considerably younger and usually suffer disablement not associated with age-related diseases.…”