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A sample of 170 responsive residents of seniors housing centres in Winnipeg, Canada, were studied, (>65 years, mean 82 years), with the objectives of relating their dental state to their perception of need and uptake of service. Only 6% rated their oral health as poor, 46% reported a dental visit within the previous year and 68% felt they needed dental treatment. A lack of perceived need (88%) was the primary reason why dental care was not sought more frequently. Hygiene practices revealed that only 7% brushed < 1 time/day, 60% never flossed, 14% cleaned their dentures <1 time/day, and 42% slept with their dentures. Dental histories showed that examination (94%), prosthodontic treatment (76%), and restorative services (65%) were the most commonly sought treatments. Perceived dental needs included prosthodontic treatment (39%), periodontal/prophylactic treatment (10%), restorative treatment (9%) and pain relief (9%). Study subjects had 2.8 decayed teeth, a DMFT of 25.1, and a Root Caries Index of 38%. CPITN scores of 3 or 4 in at least one sextant were found in 80% of subjects. Of the 41% edentulous, all wore complete dentures but 15% of complete upper dentures and 51% of complete lower dentures fitted poorly. Of the partial dentures, 20% fitted poorly. Soft tissue anomalies were seen in 67% of subjects and 47% had TMJ anomalies. Overall, 77% of edentulous subjects and all dentate subjects required some dental treatment even though 46% had seen a dentist within the preceding year. It is concluded that appropriate management of such people needs further attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The medical and dental status, and drug utilisation patterns of Canadian Inuit elders (60+ years) were evaluated. Inuit elders averaged 6.3 medical conditions per person, primarily nervous systems-sense organ deficits, respiratory problems and systemic infections. The mean number of drugs being used was 2.5 per person, primarily analgesics, bronchodilators and antibiotics. Poorly fitting dentures, and high levels of tooth decay, periodontal disease, soft tissue and TMJ anomalies were documented. Compared to older southern Canadians, the medical and dental findings for these Inuit elders were different. Drug utilisation rates were consistent with older southern Canadians, but different drugs were taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]