Objective: Dental problems are common in older people. It is not known whether mental illness increases this risk further, especially for those living in the community. To measure frequency and nature of dental problems in older people with mental illness living in the community, and to compare it with cognitive impairment and depressive symptomatology.
Materials and Methods: 99 outpatients from the old age psychiatric service in South Manchester, United Kingdom, were seen at home by a mental health nurse to assess cognitive functioning (Mini-Mental State Examination) and depression (Geriatric Depression Scale). Dental health was assessed by a dentist at the patients’ homes. Both assessors were blind to each of the assessments.
Results: The average age was 76.6 (±6.8) years. 68% were women. Depression 59%. Psychosis 14%. Dementia 9%. Dual diagnosis 18%. Over half of the patients did not have a dentist, and one third had not seen a dentist in the last five years. 81% had partial or complete dentures. Although half had problems with their dentures, half of the dentures were more than five years old. Debris, plaques and calculus were very common, and almost three-quarters were thought to be in need of dental treatment. The relationship between dental problems, cognitive impairment and depression is currently being analysed.
Conclusion: Dental problems are very common in this patient group, with a need to improve access and availability of dentists/hygienists. In this respect, understanding the relationship between dental problems and cognitive impairment and/or depression may be important.
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