Annals and Essences of Dentistry
Open Access

A special case of a loose denture and undiagnosed dementia

10^th World Summit on Dentistry and Oral Health & 2^nd Annual Congress on Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy

August 23, 2022 | Webinar

Safa Helmy

Kings College London, UK

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: Ann Essence Dent

Abstract :

Statement of the Problem: This is a case of a 74 year old female who presented to the dental clinic with a loose denture and undiagnosed dementia. Medically she had a previous diagnosis of Asthma, Gastric reflux, Osteoarthritis and Dry mouth. Methodology and Theoretical Orientation: This patient was seen over multiple visits where a full dental assessment and treatment plan was carried out including caries assessment, periodontal and prosthodontic examination. Findings: This patient’s examination revealed multiple caries lesions, calculus and generalized plaque. A comprehensive treatment plan was carried out to include the acute phase, stabilization, prevention, definitive review and maintenance appointment. After managing the caries and periodontal disease and making sure the patient was no longer in pain a partial denture was made for the patient. However, on the review appointment it was noted that the patient had not removed the denture from their mouth for two weeks and daughter advised us that the patient had recently been diagnosed with dementia, which was unknown at the initial presentation. Conclusion and Significance: There is no real evidence to correlate dementia with poor oral health. As clinicians we have a duty of care for our patients and should refer to the correct healthcare professionals if we are concerned about our patient’s memory, or lack of. In this way we can tailor our treatment plans to the diagnosis and use different techniques and support from family and the dental community to help maintain good oral health.

Biography :

Safa Helmy has experience in general dentistry and oral and is passionate about improving oral health. She is involved in education and improvement of oral health in the community. Her approach to patients is varied depending on patient factors and the environment and she is keen to keep up to date with new techniques and technologies.