More Oral Health Care Is Needed for Older Adults

A new study from Oral Health America (OHA) found seniors require more access to oral health care services, according to Pharmacy Times . The report found 33 percent of older adults have lost six teeth or more, with sociodemographic forces wielding a vital influence. OHA gave 25 U.S. states poor overall oral health scores for seniors, while states with "excellent" scores included Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Connecticut, and Colorado. "Oral health for seniors is important for their diet, nutrition, self-esteem, socialization, and freedom from pain, among many other benefits," says the University of Illinois at Chicago's Caswell Evans. The study found state oral health plans (SOHPs) have boosted the percentage of people in regions served by community water fluoridation and cover a greater number of adult dental services under Medicaid. From the study's findings, OHA recommends states perform basic screening surveys of older adults; set up, maintain, or reinstate a comprehensive adult Medicaid dental benefit; outline specific objectives for older men and women in all SOHPs; combine comprehensive dental coverage in Medicare; and sustain or expand community water fluoridation.