Why Oral Health Matters
Geriatric oral and systemic health are tightly interconnected:
- Poor oral hygiene is associated with increased incidence of pneumonia.
- Many medications cause dry mouth, increasing risk of dental caries.
- Diabetic glucose control and periodontal disease directly interplay, with poorer diabetes control worsening periodontal disease and vice versa.
- Poor oral health can cause weight loss and failure to thrive.
Health care professionals of all types can play an important role in improving the overall health of their patients by addressing oral issues.
References
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