Changes in oral health mean that clinicians are now faced with a partially dentate older population who are very susceptible to dental disease. This project will actively work with patients and healthcare providers to develop and test interventions to improve oral health in this population

Epidemiological changes have meant that the majority of older adults now retain their natural teeth, giving rise to a partially dentate older population who are very susceptible to dental disease as their ability to manually clean their teeth declines. Currently the oral health of care home residents is significantly worse than their community living peers, with a very high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease. This results in pain, discomfort and negative impacts on oral function and quality of life. Poor oral health may also exacerbate a range of medical conditions including aspiration pneumonia and delirium, increasing healthcare costs and leading to poorer overall outcomes.

This project will aim to aim oral health in older adults by exploring interventions in partnership with patients and healthcare providers