Abstract
Introduction
Older elderly people have poor oral health, not usually seek for dental services, and self-perceived oral health that is inconsistent with treatment needs.
Objective
To compare the oral health condition, self-perception and use of dental services of elderly people with 80+ years of age in a southern Brazilian municipality.
Method
Descriptive study with 59 elders, in 2011 and 2015, Antônio Carlos, Santa Catarina. Demographic data, use of services, Oral Health Impact Profile – 14 item, habits and some oral conditions were investigated.
Result
In both years, more than 70% required upper dentures, although more than 80% were satisfied with teeth/prosthesis. More than 60% reported last dental visit more than 3 years ago. It was observed a significative increasing in lower denture need, dry mouth, plaque and discomfort to eat; decreasing routine dental visits and tooth extraction.
Conclusion
Although there was a decrease in extractions, the elderly had prosthetic need and reported problems with eating. These results reaffirm the importance of including the elderly with 80+ years in the oral health services network.
Descriptors:
Elderly; oral health; geriatric dentistry; public health dentistry; dental care for aged