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ABSTRACT Objective: ssess quantitatively and qualitatively tongue coating microbiota in ICU patients. Methods: Analytical observational study, convenience sample comprising 65 patients was included for medical report analysis and collection of general data, tongue coating assessment through visual inspection and microbiological sample collection for further laboratory analysis. The collection was performed by a single examiner using a sterile swab introduced and rubbing the posterior portion of the tongue close to the oropharynx. Results: Most patients (60%) belonged to the female sex, at mean age of 74.2 years. The main reasons for hospitalization were lung issues (26.2%) - prevailing associated comorbidities were diabetes (43.1%) and high blood pressure (66.2%). The mean length of stay in the ICU was one day. All patients presented tongue dorsum coating. There were Candida albicans (37%), Streptococcus parasanguinis (26.1%) and Streptococcus mitis (32.6%) in 1/3 of lingual extension. Streptococcus mitis (p=0,0265) was the most prevalent species. Conclusion: There was no significance between the amount of coating and number of observed species, although all assessed patients had presented coating. The most prevalent microorganisms were Candida albicans, Streptococcus parasanguinis and Streptococcus mitis.

Dementia is classified as a mental disorder of a neurodegenerative nature that affects the Central Nervous System. Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of dementia that affects elderly people and it is defined as a progressive and persistent loss of multiple areas of intellectual functions. It gradually promotes deterioration in memory, learning, orientation, emotional stability and ability to communicate. Moreover, abstract thinking (paranoia and hallucinations) and the decline of personal care such as bathing and performing oral hygiene are common, interfering in the individual’s social and daily life. According to its development, Alzheimer’s disease is divided into three distinct stages: initial, intermediate and terminal stage. The aim of this study was to approach the characteristics and suggest guidelines for dental attendance in the representative stages in the development of this dementia condition. The dentist should be aware of the different stages of this disease and its characteristics to provide patients with individual oral health attention. The participation of caregivers, family, and the health team is fundamental and it is also necessary to maintain oral health of these elderly patients.