The oral health quality of life for seniors in residential facilities who have direct access to care as compared to those without access

Introduction: This pilot study tests whether there is a perceived difference in oral health when residents in long-term care facilities receive direct access to the scaling of teeth/debridement using dental hygiene instruments compared to facilities who provide only minimal oral hygiene care. Methods: The study was a quasi-experimental pretest/post-test control group design and took place at two long-term care senior residential facilities in Sheridan, Wyoming. Fifteen residents from each facility comprised the study sample (n = 30). The treatment group received a debridement and oral hygiene education and the control group received brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene education. Results: Results revealed a significant difference in pre/post OHIP-5 scores in the treatment group (p = 0.0222). The control group had improved scores, but it was not significant. Conclusions: This study demonstrated a significant difference in the perception of oral health quality of life when seniors received a dental cleaning where they reside.