Oral health status in elderly hospitalized patients with dysphagia: the role of dental hygiene

BACKGROUND: Poor oral health status in elderly hospitalized patients with dysphagia has been shown to increase risk for complications, including aspiration pneumonia. The aim of this study is to investigate oral health status in elderly hospitalized patients with dysphagia and the role of dental hygienists in maintaining their oral health care and avoiding complications. METHODS: This study was conducted on twenty hospitalized patients above 65 years of age with a definite diagnosis of oropharyngeal dysphagia. Oral health was assessed by oral examination, oral hygiene condition evaluation through plaque control record, periodontal disease evaluation with bleeding on probing, presence of caries, salivary pH parameters, oral health habits. RESULTS: Six patients were assisted by dental hygienists, whereas fourteen were not. All patients had a compromised oral health status, regardless the presence of dental hygienists. Patients without a dental hygiene assistance showed significant higher plaque control record scores and bleeding on Probing percentage. CONCLUSIONS: Elderly hospitalized patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia without dental hygiene assistance presented worse oral health status for periodontal disease and caries, with higher risk of severe complications. Given the higher risk of dysphagia complications associated to poor oral care, oral health care in elderly hospitalized patients is recommended.