DMFT index among institutionalized elderly

Abstract

Introduction. Poor oral health among elderly is most common dental problem nowadays, especially among the institutionalized persons. Aim. To detect DMFT index among the institutionalized elderly. Material and Method. Oral examination was made to make adequate evaluation. A total number of 70 subjects were evaluated. DMFT index has been detected only with dental mirror and probe, without using additional instruments and methods. Results. Average value of DMFT index in our survey was 24.84 ± 4.56 (with Confidence interval from 23.77 to 25.89). M-component was dominant - 21.56 ± 7.79 (with Confidence interval from 15.74 to 23.38). D-component indicated by carious teeth and persistent roots had value 2.60 ± 3.54 (with Confidence interval from 1.77 to 3.42). Mean value of teeth with definitive fillings (F-component of DMFT index) was 0.34 ± 1.42 (with Confidence interval from 0.33 to 1.01). Conclusion. DMFT index among the institutionalized elderly had one of the biggest values in the literature. M-component was dominant and indicator of the absence of many teeth. Therefore it is of great importance to prepare adequate protocol for oral health care among the institutionalized elderly.