Le alterazioni del cavo orale negli utenti in carico ai servizi di assistenza domiciliare: un’indagine di prevalenza

Abstract

Objective

The purpose of this study is to estimate the prevalence of oral mucosal disorders and mouth hygienic conditions of the users in charge of home care services to a Tuscan Health Company.

Materials and methods

Four hundred eight users were included, their mouth has been observed and an oral interview has been performed. Patients were observed by home care nurses, because there is no dental hygienist in home care services. Home care nurses were trained by a dentist, who thought them how to reveal signs of oral mucosal disorders. They were equipped with a LEAD torch, which facilitated the observation.

Results

Twenty-one percent of the patients had inflammatory lesions localized to the oral mucosa and 3.3% had lesions of uncertain nature. 17.6% presented alterations related to teeth. Almost half of the patients had low levels of oral hygiene.

Conclusions

The data of prevalence of oral alterations suggest the need to increase the awareness of health professions about oral care and the need of specific services in mouth hygiene in home care.