Profilaktyka stomatologiczna – zalecenia dla osób starszych, rezydentów domów opieki i ich opiekunów. Stanowisko grupy roboczej Polskiego Oddziału Sojuszu dla Przyszłości Wolnej od Próchnicy (ACFF) ds. zapobiegania próchnicy w populacji osób dorosłych

Introduction. Oral health is an integral part of general health. In the population of elderly people with multiple chronic diseases, the prevention of oral diseases should be an integral part of medical care. Older people are often dependent, have limited manual skills and require help or assistance in performing hygiene procedures, including brushing teeth. Aim. Development of standards for the prevention of oral diseases dedicated to the elderly, residents of nursing homes and their carers. Material and methods. Analysis of the medical databases (Pubmed, EMBASE, MEDLINE), using the following search phrases: “oral health”, “prophylactic procedures”, “oral care”, “elderly”, “residents of nursing home” and manual search of recommendations of dental societies and the World Health Organization. Results. The available literature indicates the need to develop standards of dental prophylaxis for the elderly, including those living in nursing homes. Pro-health education of the elderly and their caregivers is a key element of dental prophylaxis and an important element of medical care. Conclusions. Regular oral hygiene and nutrition in accordance with the recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of caries improves general health and improves the quality of life of seniors.