Dental care in patients with dementia

Abstract

##Statement of the problem Dementia is a concern in the ageing population. Approximately 5% of the population live with dementia. This progressive neurological condition negatively impacts on the person’s ability to remember, communicate, understand and reason. The rate of progression of dementia is individual to the person, although comorbidities such as heart disease and diabetes can increase the rate of decline. ##Purpose of the study This literature review aims to enable the dental profession to better understand dementia in order to improve the provision of oral and dental care for this patient group. Patient-centred approaches to aid effective disease prevention and management strategies for patients with dementia are discussed. ##Conclusion Dentists and dental hygienists can support patients living with dementia by establishing an oral care programme as early as possible following diagnosis to ensure continuity of care as dementia progresses. Maintaining oral and dental health improves patients’ self-esteem, social integration, nutrition, and overall well-being, as pain and infection can lead to increased confusion in patients with dementia.