Personalized Dental Caries Management for Frail Older Adults and Persons with Special Needs

Abstract

Frail older adults and persons with special needs are at higher risk of oral diseases including dental caries. Considering the diverse background of the population, a personalized approach for each patient is mandatory to successfully manage their oral health needs. This article describes a succinct way to assess and categorize the risk of rapid oral health deterioration (ROHD) among this group. The procedures for assessing ROHD risk examine the ROHD risk categories, how risk factors impact treatment strategies, what techniques and materials exist for caries prevention and treatment, and how one effectively communicates caries management plans for this population.

Keywords: Aged; Dental caries; Developmental disabilities; Frail elderly; Mental health; Oral health; Oral hygiene; Root caries.