A significant proportion of patients who use prostheses are in the older age group, and treatment planning in this group requires some additional elements. Manual dexterity, visual acuity, medications used, systemic diseases and cognitive status directly affect the success of the prosthesis. For this reason, the approach to dentures for the elderly requires looking not only inside the mouth but also at the person’s daily life. As DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic, in Türkiye we set up the plan with this whole picture in mind.
Manual Dexterity and Design
In patients with arthritis, tremor or loss of muscle strength, putting in and taking out the prosthesis may become difficult. In this case, the design is simplified; solutions that are easier to use are preferred instead of complex attachment systems. In addition, if brushing becomes difficult, thick-handled or adapted brushes may be recommended. Even a simple recommendation is valuable in terms of preserving independence.
The preferred solution is not always the most technically advanced one; it is the one the patient can apply daily. A fixed prosthesis that cannot be cleaned provides less benefit than a removable prosthesis that can be cleaned.
Medications and Dry Mouth
Multiple medication use is common at an advanced age. Some blood pressure, heart, depression, allergy and urinary tract medications may reduce saliva secretion. Saliva is the natural element that ensures the retention of the prosthesis and cleans the mouth; when it decreases, the prosthesis holds with more difficulty, the tissues are easily irritated and the risk of caries increases.
For this reason, it is important that you inform your dentist of all the medications you use. Do not stop medications on your own decision; however, you can get recommendations for reducing dry mouth: water intake spread throughout the day, mouth-moisturizing products and other approaches your dentist deems appropriate.
The Effect of Systemic Diseases
- Diabetes: It can affect gum health and healing; the level of control affects the plan.
- Medications affecting bone metabolism: They require special evaluation in surgical planning.
- Blood thinners: Communication with the relevant physician is needed before extractions and surgery.
- Neurological conditions: A support plan may be needed for prosthesis use and care.
Sharing this information ensures that the treatment is planned safely. We recommend that you bring an up-to-date list of the medications you use with you.
Nutrition and General Health
The narrowing of the diet due to chewing difficulty is an important problem that is overlooked at an advanced age. A decrease in the consumption of meat, raw vegetables and fruit may reduce the intake of protein, fiber and vitamins; this is associated with muscle loss and weakened immunity. When evaluating prosthesis fit, we also ask about weight changes and eating habits. If there is weight loss, this is a warning not only in terms of nutrition but also in terms of prosthesis fit.
Vision and Clinical Communication
Reduced visual acuity may lead to missed areas when cleaning the prosthesis. In these patients, it is recommended that cleaning be checked by the sense of touch and, if necessary, confirmed by a relative. In addition, giving written care instructions in large print in clinical communication significantly increases the continuity of application at home.
Cognitive Status
In patients with forgetfulness or cognitive decline, prosthesis care may be neglected; the prosthesis may even be lost. In these cases, a simplified routine, a visible storage place and caregiver support are important. In some situations, marking the prosthesis with a name is a practical precaution, especially for patients staying in a care home.
For Caregivers
If you are supporting the oral care of a relative, the following steps may be a guide: make sure the prosthesis is removed and brushed every day, clean the inside of the mouth and the palate with a soft brush, note any redness or sores you notice, accompany them to check-up appointments and keep the list of medications used up to date. Preserving the person’s independence is important; allowing them to do the steps they can do themselves and supporting only where they struggle is the best approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sessions can be planned to be short. Be sure to mention it if you feel tired or uncomfortable.
Yes. What is decisive is not age but general health and the condition in the mouth.
Age alone is not an obstacle; bone condition and general health are evaluated.
Go to the clinic. If there are records, the production process may be easier.
The prosthesis is removed and cleaned, and the inside of the mouth is wiped with damp gauze; your dentist will give special recommendations.
Yes. Chewing difficulty can narrow the diet; an evaluation is recommended.
Age is not an obstacle to good oral health.
Have a fit, care and nutrition evaluation for yourself or a relative. Contact us to book an appointment; let us set up a person-centered plan at DijiDent Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic.
This content is for general information purposes. The treatment plan is determined by your dentist, taking into account general health condition and the medications used.
