Oral health for adults in care homes

The importance of focusing on oral health for wellbeing

Essential facts

It is estimated that more than 400,000 adults live in UK care homes, 80% of whom have dementia. More than half of older people in care homes have tooth decay compared with 40% of over 75s and 33% of over 85s who do not live in care homes. Care home residents are more likely to have fewer natural teeth, and those with teeth are less likely to have enough teeth to eat comfortably and socialise without embarrassment.

What’s new?

In July, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence published guidance calling for oral health and access to dental treatments to be given the same priority as general health for all adults in care homes. The guideline includes recommendations on improving and maintaining residents’ day-to-day oral health