Oral status of older adults receiving home medical care: A cross-sectional study.

AIM: This study examined the oral status and the presence of teeth requiring treatment among older adults receiving home medical care. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a Japanese dental clinic specializing in geriatric treatment. We recruited older adults receiving home medical care in the community who had begun to receive domiciliary dental care. The Japanese version of the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT-J), as well as the presence of teeth requiring extraction and the need for assistance in maintaining oral hygiene were used to evaluate the participants' oral health and its association with other items. RESULTS: Ninety-three participants (44 male and 49 female, median age: 87.0 years) were surveyed. The median OHAT-J score was 6. The duration since the previous dental visit was 23 months. Sixty-two (73.8%) of 84 participants with ≥1 natural tooth had severe caries or teeth with severe mobility that required extraction. Logistic analysis revealed that requiring assistance in maintaining oral hygiene, mild dementia, severe dementia, and depression were significantly associated with an OHAT score of ≥6. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults receiving home medical care had poor oral health, with approximately 70% of them requiring tooth extraction. The need for assistance in maintaining oral hygiene and poor mental status contribute to poor oral health. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 706-714.

Obesity is associated with lack of access to dental care and physical activity among older adults: a cross-sectional study / Obesidade está associada com falta de acesso a serviços odontológicos e atividade física em idosos: um estudo transversal

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the prevalence of obesity and associated factors among older adults. METHODS: This was a household-based cross-sectional study involving 282 individuals aged ≥ 60 years recruited in the city of Veranópolis, Brazil, using random probabilistic sampling. Participants underwent a clinical oral examination and completed a structured questionnaire. Obesitywas determined based on body mass index (BMI). Individuals were divided into two groups based on the presence (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) or absence of obesity (BMI < 30 kg/m2). Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed using Poisson regression with robust variance. RESULTS: The prevalence of obesity was 34% (n = 96). Each 1-year increase in age resulted in a 3.09% decrease in the likelihood of being classified as having obesity (prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.969; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 0.949 ­ 0.989). Older adults that reported walking < 5 or ≥ 5 times per week were 39.65 and 37.20% less likely to be classified as obese. The PRs of obesity in former and non-smokers were 4.40 and 5 times higher, respectively, than in current smokers (p < 0.05). Older adults with no access to dental care were 51.72% (p = 0.013) more likely to present with obesity. CONCLUSIONS: There was a high prevalence of obesity among older adults. Obesity was associated with lower age, smoking status, no access to dental care, and a lack of physical activity

OBJETIVO: O presente estudo avaliou a prevalência de obesidade e fatores associados em idosos. METODOLOGIA: Um estudo transversal domiciliar, com amostragem probabilística, foi realizado com 282 indivíduos de idade ≥60 anos de Veranópolis, Brasil. Um exame clínico de saúde bucal foi realizado e um questionário estruturado foi aplicado. A obesidade foi determinada pelo Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC). Os indivíduos foram categorizados com obesidade (IMC ≥ 30kg/m2) e sem obesidade (IMC < 30kg/m2). Análises uni e multivariadas foram feitas por meio de regressão de Poisson com variância robusta. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de obesidade foi de 34% (n = 96). Cada ano de aumento na idade resultou em uma diminuição de 3,09% (razão de prevalência [RP] = 0,969; intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC95%] = 0,949 ­ 0,989) na RP de ser do grupo de obesos. Idosos que reportaram caminhar < cinco ou ≥ cinco vezes por semana apresentaram menor RP para obesidade, 39,65 e 37,20%, respectivamente. Ex-fumantes e não fumantes obtiveram, respectivamente, 4,40 e 5 vezes maior RP de serem do grupo de obesos quando comparados aos fumantes (p < 0,05). Idosos sem acesso a serviços odontológicos demonstraram 51,72% (p = 0,013) maior RP de serem do grupo com obesidade. CONCLUSÕES: Houve uma alta prevalência de obesidade em idosos, que foi associada com menor idade, estado de fumo e ausência de acesso ao dentista e atividade física.

Salud oral integral para adultos de 60 años: un análisis territorial de su cobertura a 12 años de su implementación / Comprehensive oral health for adults 60 years of age: a territorial analysis of its coverage 12 years after its implementation

INTRODUCCIÓN. Las personas mayores en Chile tienen alta carga de morbilidad oral y de déficit funcional que afecta directamente su calidad de vida. El programa universal GES Salud Oral Integral del adulto de 60 años, implementado desde el 2007, permite a las personas de 60 años acceder a tratamiento odontológico integral, aunque a la fecha se tiene pocos antecedentes de sus resultados. El objetivo de este estudio es estimar la cobertura del programa GES 60 para el año 2019 de los beneficiarios FONASA y su variabilidad territorial desagregada por Servicio de Salud (SS), sexo y tipo de prestador (público o compra de servicios). MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS. Se realizó un estudio observacional ecológico, utilizando fuentes de datos secundarios de uso público (DEIS, FONASA). Se estimó la cobertura nacional total y por sexo, estratificada para cada SS. RESULTADOS. La cobertura del programa en el sector público de salud fue de un 22,8% el año 2019. La menor cobertura se observó en el SS Arica (5,3%) y la mayor en el SS Arauco (37,9%). La cobertura nacional fue significativamente mayor (valor p=0,001) en mujeres (27,1%) que en hombres (17,9%). La compra de servicios a proveedores externos totalizó el 12,2% de las altas dentales, siendo esta proporción heterogénea entre SS con relación inversa entre Compra de servicios y Cobertura. DISCUSIÓN. La cobertura para el año evaluado fue baja, siendo insuficiente para poder resolver la alta carga de morbilidad de las personas mayores chilenas. Existe una amplia variabilidad territorial de la cobertura, presentando diferencias por sexo y en la compra de servicios.

INTRODUCTION. Elderly people in Chile have a high burden of oral morbidity and functional deficits that directly affect their quality of life. The universal GES program: "Comprehensive Oral Health for the 60-year-old adult", implemented since 2007, allows 60-year-olds to access comprehensive dental treatment, however there is limited evidence of its results to date.The aim of this study is to estimate the coverage of the program for the year 2019 of the public health insurance FONASA beneficiaries and their territorial variability disaggregated by Health Service (HS), sex and type of provider (public or purchase of services). MATERIALS AND METHODS. An observational ecological study was carried out, using secondary data from public sources (DEIS, FONASA). Total national coverage and by sex was estimated, stratified for each SS. Results. The coverage of the program in the public health sector was 22.8% in 2019. The lowest coverage was observed in Arica HS (5.3%) and the highest in Arauco HS (37.9%). National coverage was significantly higher (p-value = 0.001) in women (27.1%) than in men (17.9%). Purchase of services from external providers totaled 12.2% of the dental discharges, this pro-portion being heterogeneous between SS with an inverse relationship between "Purchase of services" and "Coverage". DISCUSSION. The coverage for the evaluated year was low, being insufficient to be able to solve the high burden of morbidity of Chilean elderly. There is a wide territorial variability of coverage, presenting differences by sex and in the purchase of services.

Self-reported oral health problems and the ability to organize dental care of community-dwelling elderly aged ≥75 years.

BACKGROUND: It is unclear how many community-dwelling elderly (≥75 years) experience oral health problems (e.g. pain, dry mouth, chewing problems) and how they manage their dental care needs. This study aimed to assess self-reported oral health problems in elderly who are frail or have complex care needs, and their ability to organize dental care when reporting oral pain. METHODS: Three thousand five hundred thirty-three community-dwelling elderly participating in the "Embrace" project were asked to complete questionnaires regarding oral status and oral health problems. Frailty was assessed with the Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI). Intermed for Elderly Self-Assessment (IM-E-SA) was used to determine complexity of care needs. Next, elderly who reported oral pain were interviewed about their oral pain complaints, their need for dental care, and their ability to organize and receive dental care. For statistical analyses Chi2-tests and the one-way ANOVA were used. RESULTS: One thousand six hundred twenty-two elderly (45.9%) completed the questionnaires. Dry mouth (11.7%) and oral pain (6.2%) were most frequently reported. Among the elderly reporting oral pain, most were registered at a local dentist and could go there when needed (84.3%). Robust elderly visited the dentist independently (87%), frail (55.6%) and complex (26.9%) elderly more often required assistance from caregivers. CONCLUSIONS: Dry mouth and oral pain are most reported oral health problems among community-dwelling elderly. Elderly with complex care needs report most oral health problems. In case an elderly seeks dental treatment to alleviate an oral pain complaint, most elderly in this study were able to organize dental care and transport to the dentist. Frail and complex elderly often need assistance from caregivers to visit the dentist. Therefore caretakers should keep in mind that when frailty progresses, visiting a dentist may become more and more difficult and the risk for poor oral health increases.

Longitudinal analysis of cost and dental utilization patterns for older adults in outpatient and long-term care settings in Minnesota.

BACKGROUND: Dental utilization patterns and costs of providing comprehensive oral healthcare for older adults in different settings have not been examined. METHODS: Retrospective longitudinal cohort data from Apple Tree Dental (ATD) were analyzed (N = 1,159 total; 503 outpatients, 656 long-term care residents) to describe oral health status at presentation, service utilization patterns, and care costs. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) repeated measures analysis identified significant contributors to service cost over the three-year study period. RESULTS: Cohort mean age was 74 years (range = 55-104); the outpatient (OP) group was younger compared to the long-term care (LTC) group. Half (56%) had Medicaid, 22% had other insurance, and 22% self-paid. Most (72%) had functional dentitions (20+ teeth), 15% had impaired dentitions (9-19 teeth), 6% had severe tooth loss (1-8 teeth), and 7% were edentulous (OP = 2%, LTC = 11%). More in the OP group had functional dentition (83% vs. 63% LTC). The number of appointments declined from 5.0 in Year 1 (OP = 5.7, LTC = 4.4) to 3.3 in Year 3 (OP = 3.6, LTC = 3.0). The average cost to provide dental services was $1,375/year for three years (OP = $1,427, LTC = $1,336), and costs declined each year, from an average of $1,959 (OP = $2,068, LTC = $1,876) in Year 1 to $1,016 (OP = $989, LTC = $1,037) by Year 3. Those with functional dentition at presentation were significantly less costly than those with 1-19 teeth, while edentulous patients demonstrated the lowest cost and utilization. Year in treatment, insurance type, dentition type, and problem-focused first exam were significantly associated with year-over-year cost change in both OP and LTC patients. CONCLUSION: Costs for providing comprehensive dental care in OP and LTC settings were similar, modest, and declined over time. Dentate patients with functional dentition and edentulous patients were less costly to treat. LTC patients had lower utilization than OP patients. Care patterns shifted over time to increased preventive care and decreased restorative care visits.

Factors associated with oral health service utilization among adults and older adults in China, 2015-2016.

OBJECTIVES: To explore the factors associated with utilization of oral health services among Chinese adults and older adults according to the Andersen Behavior Model. METHODS: Data from the 4th National Oral Health Survey (2015-2016) in China were used. A total of 7206 people (3669 adults aged 35-44 years and 3537 older adults aged 65-74 years) were included in our analysis. Oral health service utilization in the past 12 months was the outcome variable. Explanatory variables were selected according to the Andersen Behavior Model. Descriptive statistics and bivariate associations (chi-square tests) were analysed, followed by hierarchical Poisson regression models, which were conducted to determine the factors associated with oral health service utilization. RESULTS: In total, 21.4% (95% CI: 19.4%-23.7%) of adults (35-44 years old) and 20.7% (95% CI: 18.6%-22.9%) of older adults (65-74 years old) utilized oral health services in the past 12 months. Nearly 80% of adults (78.7%, 95% CI: 74.0%-82.7%) and more than 90% of older adults (93.7%, 95% CI: 91.0%-95.6%) visited a dentist for treatment. Adults aged 35-44 years old who were female (IRR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.00-1.33, P = .047), had good oral health knowledge and attitudes (IRR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.06-1.59, P = .011), perceived their oral health status as fair (IRR:1.51, 95% CI:1.24-1.85, P < .001) or poor/very poor (IRR:2.52, 95% CI:2.01-3.18, P < .001) and had a decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) index >0 (IRR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.11-2.09, P = .009) were more likely to report dental visits in the past 12 months. Older adults who utilized oral health services tended to be female (IRR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.09-1.59, P = .004); to be covered by Urban Resident Basic Medical Insurance (URBMI) (IRR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.18-2.05, P = .002), Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (UEBMI) (IRR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.32-2.16, P < .001) or government medical insurance (GMI) (IRR: 1.03, 95% CI:1.01-2.16, P = .044); to have a high education level (IRR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.08-1.74, P = .010); to have an income level in the 2nd tertile (IRR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.13-1.84, P = .003) or 3rd tertile (IRR:1.52, 95% CI:1.18-1.95, P = .001); and to perceive their oral health status as poor or very poor (IRR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.21-1.95, P = .001). CONCLUSIONS: Sex and self-perceived oral health status were associated with oral health utilization among Chinese population. Additionally, for older adults, education level, household income and insurance coverage were determinants of dental service use. These findings can aid in creating more targeted policies to increase the use of dental services by Chinese adults.

Self-reported oral health at baseline of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the prevalence of poor self-reported oral health (SROH) and dental service-use in a representative sample of Canadian residents, and to identify associations between SROH and psychosocial determinants of health at baseline of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. METHODS: Data from baseline interviews from 2010 to 2015 involving 93% of 51 388 adults (n = 47 761) were weighted to compare the prevalence of oral health characteristics adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomics, general health and residence. SROH was assessed as 'excellent', 'very good', 'good', 'fair' or 'poor', and dichotomized as 'fair/poor' and 'good/very good/excellent'. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association of fair/poor oral health with psychosocial determinants of health. RESULTS: Most participants reported 'good/very good/excellent' oral health (92.5%), natural teeth (92.0%) and dental service-use in the previous year (79.6%), yet over 10% had discomfort when eating. Reports of 'fair/poor' oral health were significantly more frequent among participants who had dental concerns, had low socioeconomic status, smoked tobacco or reported poor general health. Dental service-use and tooth loss differed by province. The odds of poor/fair SROH were high (odds ratio ≥1.5) among participants who avoided foods, did not use dental services frequently, had low incomes, smoked tobacco, were depressed, felt unhealthy or had multiple chronic conditions, but by neither sex or age. There were no interprovincial differences. CONCLUSIONS: Most Canadian residents feel in good oral health and use dental services. Oral health inequality is evident between different socioeconomic groups and between healthy and unhealthy people. SROH is strongly associated with socioeconomic and general health status but not with place of residence. However, there were substantial differences in reports of tooth loss and dental service-use across provinces.

Objective and perceived oral health status of elderly nursing home residents: a local survey in southern France.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the perceived oral health of elderly persons and the clinical reality of their oral status. BACKGROUND: Persons aged over 60 have considerable need for oral health care; a need that increases over time. However, this population appears to be unaware of their state of oral health, and this may be a further obstacle to professional management. We thought it useful to examine the objective and the perceived oral health of these patients. Understanding what may influence their perception can help us to improve their management. METHODS: The data analyzed in this work are the findings of a field survey carried out in elderly nursing home residents. Their objective oral health was evaluated by using two variables: oral profile, determined by clinical examination, and the oral health index determined using the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT). Perceived oral health was evaluated using the various categories and fields of the General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI). RESULTS: Our clinical study showed a discrepancy between perceived oral health and the clinical reality: although a significant association can be demonstrated between the OHAT and the GOHAI, there are considerable variations. It also appeared that the number of teeth and total edentation considerably influence perceived oral health and that findings vary according to different situations. CONCLUSION: Numerous factors influence elderly persons' perception of their true oral health. In order to improve our elders' quality of life, the necessary measures must be taken for the follow-up and regular monitoring of their oral health. At the same time, all possible means should be used and awareness should be raised to improve the health behavior and perception of patients and their entourage.

[Access to and use of oral health services among the elderly in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil]. / Acesso e utilização dos serviços de saúde bucal por idosos de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil.

This article sought to measure lack of access and use of oral health services by elderly residents of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. This is a cross-sectional population study carried out in 2014, in the city's urban zone, including individuals aged 60 years or more. Sociodemographic and self-reported needs variables were associated with outcomes. We used Poisson regression for the crude and adjusted analyses. We interviewed 1,451 elderly individuals using a structured questionnaire. The prevalence of lack of access in the previous year was of 1.8% (95%CI: 0.7-3.0). Elderly individuals who never had a consultation were 3.1% (95%CI: 2.2-4.0) and the prevalence of use of oral health services in the previous years was 38.3%(95%CI 36.0-41.0). Use in the previous year was positively associated with the following variables: younger age (PR = 1.16), having a partner (PR = 1.28), high educational level (PR = 1.31), mouth or teeth problems (PR = 1.93), need for dental prosthesis (PR = 1.36) and being edentulous (PR = 3.11). Lack of access in the previous year was low. Oral health service use was higher than that observed in other states. Findings seem to reflect the expansion of oral health services in the city, especially in the public network, and are useful for health policy planning.

O objetivo foi medir a falta de acesso e a utilização dos serviços de saúde bucal por idosos de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Estudo transversal de base populacional foi realizado no ano de 2014, na zona urbana do município, incluindo indivíduos com 60 anos e mais. Variáveis sociodemográficas e de necessidade autorreferidas foram associadas aos desfechos. Utilizou-se regressão de Poisson para as análises bruta e ajustada. Foram entrevistados 1.451 idosos mediante um questionário estruturado. Falta de acesso no último ano alcançou uma prevalência de 1,8% (IC95%: 0,7-3,0). Idosos que nunca consultaram somaram 3,1% (IC95%: 2,2-4,0) e a utilização de serviços de saúde bucal no último ano registrou prevalência de 38,3% (IC95%: 36,0-41,0). A utilização no último ano apresentou associação positiva com as seguintes variáveis: faixa etária mais jovem (RP = 1,16), ter companheiro (RP = 1,28), alta escolaridade (RP = 1,31), problema na boca ou nos dentes (RP = 1,93), necessidade de prótese dentária (RP = 1,36) e ser edêntulo (RP = 3,11). A falta de acesso no último ano foi baixa. A utilização de serviços de saúde bucal foi mais alta do que a observada em outros estudos. Os achados parecem refletir a expansão desses serviços, particularmente na rede pública, sendo úteis para as ações de planejamento das políticas de saúde.

El objetivo fue medir la falta de acceso y utilización de los servicios de salud bucal por parte de ancianos en Pelotas, Río Grande do Sul, Brasil. Se realizó un estudio transversal de base poblacional durante el año 2014, en la zona urbana del municipio, incluyendo a individuos con 60 años y más. Las variables sociodemográficas y de necesidad autorreferidas se asociaron a los resultados. Se utilizó la regresión de Poisson para los análisis bruto y ajustado. Se entrevistaron a 1.451 ancianos, mediante un cuestionario estructurado. La falta de acceso en el último año alcanzó una prevalencia de 1,8% (IC95%: 0,7-3,0). Los ancianos que nunca consultaron sumaron un 3,1% (IC95%: 2,2-4,0) y la utilización de servicios de salud bucal en el último año tuvo una prevalencia de un 38,3% (IC95%: 36,0-41,0). La utilización durante el último año presentó una asociación positiva con las siguientes variables: franja de edad más joven (RP = 1,16), tener compañero (RP = 1,28), alta escolaridad (RP = 1,31), problema en la boca o en los dientes (RP = 1,93), necesidad de prótesis dental (RP = 1,36) y ser edéntulo (RP = 3,11). La falta de acceso en el último año fue baja. La utilización de servicios de salud bucal fue más alta que la observada en otros estudios. Los resultados parecen reflejar la expansión de los servicios de salud bucal en el municipio, particularmente en la red pública, siendo útiles para las acciones de planificación dentro de las políticas de salud.

Domiciliary dental care among homebound older adults: A nested case-control study in Japan.

AIM: Improving the availability of dental care is essential to maintain older adults' general health and wellbeing. Domiciliary dental care is a feasible alternative. The present study aimed to investigate factors affecting the use of domiciliary dental care among home-dwelling dependent older adults. METHODS: A retrospective nested case-control study was carried out. We identified long-term care recipients who used home care services between April 2012 and March 2014 using Japan's nationwide long-term care service claim database. One-to-one case-control matching was carried out between those with and without domiciliary dental care, based on sex, age and the time home care service use was started. We carried out multivariable conditional logistic regression analyses to assess various factors associated with using domiciliary dental care. RESULTS: We identified 3 377 998 eligible homebound long-term care beneficiaries aged ≥65 years. Of these, 278 302 (8.2%) received domiciliary dental care. Factors associated with a higher probability of receiving domiciliary dental care were: higher level of care need (odds ratio [OR] 1.99, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.93-2.06), exemption from out-of-pocket payment (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.32-1.39]), living in a group home (OR 7.93, 95% CI 7.71-8.16), using other domiciliary services such as physician visits (OR 3.15, 95% CI 3.08-3.22) and a large number of dental clinics providing domiciliary dental care in their municipality (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.70-1.77). Significant barriers to receiving domiciliary dental care were living alone (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.62-0.66) and dementia (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.88-0.91). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings might help to improve the availability of dental care in this population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 679-683.

Acesso e utilização dos serviços de saúde bucal por idosos de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Access to and use of oral health services among the elderly in Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil / Acceso y utilización de los servicios de salud bucal por parte de ancianos en Pelotas, Río Grande do Sul, Brasil

Resumo: O objetivo foi medir a falta de acesso e a utilização dos serviços de saúde bucal por idosos de Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Estudo transversal de base populacional foi realizado no ano de 2014, na zona urbana do município, incluindo indivíduos com 60 anos e mais. Variáveis sociodemográficas e de necessidade autorreferidas foram associadas aos desfechos. Utilizou-se regressão de Poisson para as análises bruta e ajustada. Foram entrevistados 1.451 idosos mediante um questionário estruturado. Falta de acesso no último ano alcançou uma prevalência de 1,8% (IC95%: 0,7-3,0). Idosos que nunca consultaram somaram 3,1% (IC95%: 2,2-4,0) e a utilização de serviços de saúde bucal no último ano registrou prevalência de 38,3% (IC95%: 36,0-41,0). A utilização no último ano apresentou associação positiva com as seguintes variáveis: faixa etária mais jovem (RP = 1,16), ter companheiro (RP = 1,28), alta escolaridade (RP = 1,31), problema na boca ou nos dentes (RP = 1,93), necessidade de prótese dentária (RP = 1,36) e ser edêntulo (RP = 3,11). A falta de acesso no último ano foi baixa. A utilização de serviços de saúde bucal foi mais alta do que a observada em outros estudos. Os achados parecem refletir a expansão desses serviços, particularmente na rede pública, sendo úteis para as ações de planejamento das políticas de saúde.

Abstract: This article sought to measure lack of access and use of oral health services by elderly residents of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. This is a cross-sectional population study carried out in 2014, in the city's urban zone, including individuals aged 60 years or more. Sociodemographic and self-reported needs variables were associated with outcomes. We used Poisson regression for the crude and adjusted analyses. We interviewed 1,451 elderly individuals using a structured questionnaire. The prevalence of lack of access in the previous year was of 1.8% (95%CI: 0.7-3.0). Elderly individuals who never had a consultation were 3.1% (95%CI: 2.2-4.0) and the prevalence of use of oral health services in the previous years was 38.3%(95%CI 36.0-41.0). Use in the previous year was positively associated with the following variables: younger age (PR = 1.16), having a partner (PR = 1.28), high educational level (PR = 1.31), mouth or teeth problems (PR = 1.93), need for dental prosthesis (PR = 1.36) and being edentulous (PR = 3.11). Lack of access in the previous year was low. Oral health service use was higher than that observed in other states. Findings seem to reflect the expansion of oral health services in the city, especially in the public network, and are useful for health policy planning.

Resumen: El objetivo fue medir la falta de acceso y utilización de los servicios de salud bucal por parte de ancianos en Pelotas, Río Grande do Sul, Brasil. Se realizó un estudio transversal de base poblacional durante el año 2014, en la zona urbana del municipio, incluyendo a individuos con 60 años y más. Las variables sociodemográficas y de necesidad autorreferidas se asociaron a los resultados. Se utilizó la regresión de Poisson para los análisis bruto y ajustado. Se entrevistaron a 1.451 ancianos, mediante un cuestionario estructurado. La falta de acceso en el último año alcanzó una prevalencia de 1,8% (IC95%: 0,7-3,0). Los ancianos que nunca consultaron sumaron un 3,1% (IC95%: 2,2-4,0) y la utilización de servicios de salud bucal en el último año tuvo una prevalencia de un 38,3% (IC95%: 36,0-41,0). La utilización durante el último año presentó una asociación positiva con las siguientes variables: franja de edad más joven (RP = 1,16), tener compañero (RP = 1,28), alta escolaridad (RP = 1,31), problema en la boca o en los dientes (RP = 1,93), necesidad de prótesis dental (RP = 1,36) y ser edéntulo (RP = 3,11). La falta de acceso en el último año fue baja. La utilización de servicios de salud bucal fue más alta que la observada en otros estudios. Los resultados parecen reflejar la expansión de los servicios de salud bucal en el municipio, particularmente en la red pública, siendo útiles para las acciones de planificación dentro de las políticas de salud.

Encuesta sobre las inquietudes y el grado de conocimientos percibido por la profesión dental en gerodontología / A survey of concerns and grade of knowlegdes perceived by dental profession about gerodontology

Introducción: El aumento de la población geriátrica en España demanda preparar a los odontólogos para poder ofrecer a este grupo de pacientes una atención específica en función de sus capacidades y necesidades. El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar el conocimiento e inquietudes en Gerodontología con la finalidad de tener una visión amplia y comprensiva de las actitudes y aptitudes que presentan los profesionales dentales para ofrecer una mejor asistencia a estos pacientes. Material y métodos: Se realizó una encuesta online a odontólogos y estudiantes de quinto curso de odontología para identificar los conocimientos e inquietudes que presentan ante la población mayor de 65 años. El cuestionario constaba con 13 ítems que se distribuyeron a 177 participantes, colegiados de la Primera Región y estudiantes de la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad Complutense de Madrid. Resultados: La mitad de los encuestados (53%) afirmaron haber tenido una formación específica en Gerodontología, el 41,8% consideraron que hubiese sido necesaria y la mayoría (94,4%) que esa formación debería ser impartida de manera reglada. La mayor preocupación de los participantes a la hora de tratar a estos pacientes fue la farmacoterapia, principalmente los bifosfonatos, considerando el tratamiento implantológico el de mayor complejidad y la necesidad de consulta interprofesional. Conclusiones: Los profesionales de la salud oral consideran necesario una formación reglada en Gerodontología, considerando la mayor preocupación a la hora de tratar a estos pacientes la farmacoterapia, principalmente los bifosfonatos, y el tratamiento implantológico

Introduction: The increase of the geriatric population in Spain demands to prepare the dentists to be able to offer this group of patients a specific dental care according to their capacities and needs. The objective of this work is to analyze the knowledge and concerns in Gerodontology in order to have a broad and comprehensive view of the attitudes and skills presented by dental professionals to offer a better assistance to these patients. Material and methods: An online survey was conductued to dentists and fifth-year dentistry students to identify knowledges and concerns which they present about the population over 65 years of age. The questionnaire consisted of 13 items that were distributed to 177 participants, mainly members of the First Region and students of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Complutense University of Madrid. Results: Half of the respondents (53%) said that they had a specific training in Gerodontology, 41.8% considered that it should have been necessary and the majority (94.4%) that this training should be provided in a ruled way. The main concern of the participants when treating these patients was pharmacotherapy, mainly bisphosphonates, considering the implant treatment the most complex and the need for interprofessional consultation. Conclusions: Oral health professionals consider a regulated training in Gerodontology necessary, considering the main concerns when treating these patients pharmacotherapy, mainly bisphosphonates, and implant treatment

Factors Associated with Undergoing Regular Dental Check-ups in Healthy Elderly Individuals.

The purpose of this study was to determine the distribution of healthy elderly individuals undergoing regular dental check-ups and identify any environmental or associated oral factors. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was used to interview 216 individuals attending 2 welfare facilities for the elderly, of whom 160 were included in the final analysis. Items comprised age, sex, number of residual teeth, frequency of teeth/denture cleaning, subjective chewing ability, denture use, oral status, regular dental check-ups, visitation of the same dentist, number of dental visits in the past year, General Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) (Japanese version) score, living situation, and use of routine medication. Individuals undergoing regular dental check-ups were defined as those with a primary dentist whom they saw for dental check-ups at least once a year. The rate of individuals undergoing regular dental check-ups was 75.0% in men aged 60-74 years, 58.8% in women aged 60-74 years, 70.0% in men aged 75 years or over, and 45.3% in women aged 75 years or over. Logistic regression analysis revealed a higher number of residual teeth (odds ratio [OR]=2.664 in comparison with those with fewer than 20 teeth, p=0.0427); cleaning teeth/dentures 3 or more times per day (OR=2.546 in comparison with cleaning them twice per day or less, p=0.0157); and a higher GOHAI score (OR=2.742 in comparison with those with a GOHAI score of less than 58, p=0.0263) as factors significantly correlated with undergoing regular dental check-ups. In conclusion, the results revealed that individuals undergoing regular dental check-ups had 20 or more residual teeth, cleaned their teeth/denture 3 or more times per day, and had a higher GOHAI score. This indicates that the best predictive factor for undergoing regular dental check-ups in healthy elderly individuals is their GOHAI score.

A ascensão da odontogeriatria no Brasil através do panorama de suas publicações / The rise of odontogeriatrics in Brazil through the panorama of its publications

A saúde bucal é parte integrante da saúde do idoso, e juntamente com a Odontogeriatria proporciona uma manutenção de uma boa qualidade de vida ao mesmo. É a base da pirâmide para a saúde do idoso através da qual se dá a mastigação e se inicia o processo digestivo, influenciando diretamente na condição nutricional e consequentemente na qualidade de vida da pessoa idosa. O aumento da população idosa produz um impacto nos serviços de saúde. Conhecendo as problemáticas é possível oferecer um melhor serviço com qualidade e capacitação adequada do profissional de Odontogeriatria, focando na preservação e manutenção da saúde bucal. A Odontogeriatria é uma especialidade relativamente nova, tendo muito ainda a ser explorada, mas mesmo nova observa-se que está em plena ascensão. Diante das inovações das leis e da conscientização da população brasileira quanto aos diretos e deveres dos idosos as tendências de publicação em Odontogeriatria poderão aumentar sucessivamente no Brasil, tornando-a cada vez mais como uma especialidade de agregar grandes valores

Changes in oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) related to long-term utilization of dental care among older people.

OBJECTIVE: To examine whether long-term utilization of dental care, treatment with fillings and crowns and persistent tooth loss between age 50 and 65 years associate with subsequent changes in OHRQoL from age 65 to 70 years. METHOD: In 1992, a census of 50-year-olds received invitation to participate in a questionnaire survey. Of 6346 respondents, 3585 completed follow-ups in 1997, 2002, 2007 and 2012. OHRQoL was measured using the Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (OIDP) inventory. RESULTS: Around 70.4%, 11.2% and 18.4% confirmed respectively, no change, worsening, and improvement in OIDP scores between age 65 and 70 years. Compared to those being permanent non-routine dental attenders, ORs of improving and worsening of OIDP were respectively, 0.4 and 0.6 if being a permanent routine dental attender. ORs for improving OIDP was 1.6 if reporting persistent specialist attendance and 2.5 if having received crowns and fillings. Participants with permanent tooth loss were most likely to both worsen and improve OIDP. CONCLUSION: Long-term routine dental attendance and permanent tooth loss occurred as predictors simultaneously for improvement and worsening of OIDP. Accumulation of advantages and disadvantages throughout the life-course increases and decreases the probability of improvement and worsening in OIDP among older people in Sweden.

"You Get Beautiful Teeth Down There": Racial/Ethnic Minority Older Adults' Perspectives on Care at Dental School Clinics.

To help eliminate reported racial/ethnic and socioeconomic inequities in oral health care, listening to the perspectives of racial/ethnic minority older adults on their experiences with dental school clinics is needed. The aim of this study was to examine the experiences of African American, Puerto Rican, and Dominican older adults who attend senior centers in upper Manhattan, New York City, regarding the care received at dental school clinics. Focus groups were conducted from 2013 to 2015 with 194 racial/ethnic minority men and women aged 50 years and older living in upper Manhattan. All of the 24 focus group sessions were digitally audiorecorded and transcribed for analysis. Groups conducted in Spanish were transcribed first in Spanish and then translated into English. Analysis of the transcripts was conducted using thematic content analysis. Seven subthemes were manifest in the data related to these adults' positive experiences with dental school clinics: excellent outcomes and dentists, painless and safe treatment, affordable care, honest and reputable, benefits of student training, accepting and helpful, and recommended by family and friends. Negative experiences centered around four subthemes: multiple visits required for treatment, loss of interpersonal communication due to use of technology, inconvenient location, and perceived stigma with Medicaid. This study provided novel evidence of the largely positive experiences with dental schools of racial/ethnic minority senior center attendees. Interventions targeted at the organization and provider level, including organizational motivation, resources, staff attributes, climate, and teamwork plus payment programs and services, insurance and affordability, and provider- and system-level supports, may improve health care processes and patient experiences of care.

[Needs for dental prostheses and their use in elderly Brazilians according to the National Oral Health Survey (SBBrazil 2010): prevalence rates and associated factors]. / Uso e necessidade de prótese dentária em idosos brasileiros segundo a Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde Bucal (SBBrasil 2010): prevalências e fatores associados.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the use of and need for dental prostheses among elderly Brazilians (65-74 years of age) and to verify associated factors. Data were analyzed from 7,496 elderly participants in the National Oral Health Survey in 2010 (SBBrazil 2010). Use of and need for dental prosthesis were the outcomes. The exposure variables included demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, dental services use, and self-rated oral health. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed. Prevalence rates for use of and need for dental prostheses were 78.2% and 68.7%, respectively. The Southeast Region had the highest prevalence of use (71.3%) and the greatest need for dental prostheses (82.9%). Multivariate Poisson regression analyses showed greater use of dental prostheses by women, individuals with 5 to 7 years of schooling, and users of private dental services, and lower use by black individuals and those with self-reported need for dental prostheses. Less need for dental prostheses was seen in women and in users of private services, and greater need in those with self-reported need for dental prostheses. Regional differences were seen in the distribution of use and need for dental prostheses. Still, the findings showed high prevalence rates for both outcomes in all regions of Brazil. Socioeconomic and demographic variables and use of dental services influenced the use of and need for dental prostheses.

Uso e necessidade de prótese dentária em idosos brasileiros segundo a Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde Bucal (SBBrasil 2010): prevalências e fatores associados / Needs for dental prostheses and their use in elderly Brazilians according to the National Oral Health Survey (SBBrazil 2010): prevalence rates and associated factors / Uso y necesidad de prótesis dentales en ancianos brasileños, según la Encuesta Nacional de Salud Bucal (SBBrasil 2010): prevalencias y factores asociados

Resumo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o uso e a necessidade de prótese dentária entre os idosos brasileiros (65-74 anos) e verificar fatores associados. Foram analisados dados de 7.496 idosos participantes do Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde Bucal realizado em 2010 (SBBrasil, 2010). O uso e a necessidade de prótese dentária foram usados como desfechos. As variáveis de exposição incluíram características demográficas, socioeconômicas, de uso de serviços e de autopercepção da saúde bucal. Análises descritiva, bivariada e multivariada foram realizadas. A prevalência de uso e necessidade de prótese dentária foi de 78,2% e 68,7%, respectivamente. A Região Nordeste foi a que apresentou a menor prevalência de uso (71,3%) e a maior de necessidade prótese dentária (82,9%). As análises multivariadas por meio de regressão de Poisson revelaram maior uso de prótese dentária em mulheres, naqueles com 5 a 7 anos de estudos e nos que foram a serviço particular, e houve menor uso em indivíduos pretos e com necessidade autorreferida de prótese dentária. Menor necessidade de prótese dentária foi observada em mulheres e nos usuários de serviço particular, e maior naqueles que autorreferiram necessidade de prótese dentária. Diferenças regionais foram observadas na distribuição do uso e da necessidade de prótese dentária. Ainda assim, os achados revelaram altas prevalências de ambos os desfechos em todas as regiões. Variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas e de uso de serviços influenciaram a ocorrência de uso e de necessidade de prótese dentária.

Abstract: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the use of and need for dental prostheses among elderly Brazilians (65-74 years of age) and to verify associated factors. Data were analyzed from 7,496 elderly participants in the National Oral Health Survey in 2010 (SBBrazil 2010). Use of and need for dental prosthesis were the outcomes. The exposure variables included demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, dental services use, and self-rated oral health. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were performed. Prevalence rates for use of and need for dental prostheses were 78.2% and 68.7%, respectively. The Southeast Region had the highest prevalence of use (71.3%) and the greatest need for dental prostheses (82.9%). Multivariate Poisson regression analyses showed greater use of dental prostheses by women, individuals with 5 to 7 years of schooling, and users of private dental services, and lower use by black individuals and those with self-reported need for dental prostheses. Less need for dental prostheses was seen in women and in users of private services, and greater need in those with self-reported need for dental prostheses. Regional differences were seen in the distribution of use and need for dental prostheses. Still, the findings showed high prevalence rates for both outcomes in all regions of Brazil. Socioeconomic and demographic variables and use of dental services influenced the use of and need for dental prostheses.

Resumen: El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el uso y la necesidad de prótesis dentales entre los ancianos brasileiros (65-74 años) y verificar sus factores asociados. Se analizaron datos de 7.496 ancianos participantes en la Encuesta Nacional de Salud Bucal, realizada en 2010 (SBBrasil 2010). El uso y la necesidad de prétesis dentales se usaron como resultados. Las variables de exposición incluyeron características demográficas, socioeconómicas, de uso de servicios y de autopercepción de salud bucal. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos, bivariados y multivariados. La prevalencia de uso y necesidad de prótesis dentales fue de un 78,2% y 68,7%, respectivamente. La región nordeste fue la que presentó la menor prevalencia de uso (71,3%) y la mayor de necesidad prótesis dentales (82,9%). Los análisis multivariados, mediante la regresión de Poisson, revelaron un mayor uso de prótesis dentales en mujeres, en aquellos con 5 a 7 años de estudios y en los que fueron a servicios privados, y hubo un menor uso en individuos negros y con necesidad autorreferida de prótesis dentales. Se observó una menor necesidad de prótesis dentales en mujeres y en los usuarios de servicios particulares, y mayor en aquellos que autoinformaron una necesidad de prótesis dentales. Se observaron diferencias regionales en la distribución del uso y necesidad de prótesis dentales. Incluso así, los hallazgos revelaron altas prevalencias de ambos en los resultados en todas las regiones. Variables socioeconómicas, demográficas y de uso de servicios influenciaron la ocurrencia de uso y necesidad de prótesis dentales.