Mini dental assessment: a simple screening test for non-dental staff.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to develop a simple tool for the assessment of possible dental treatment needs (DTN) for non-dental professionals (Mini Dental Assessment, MDA). To keep the assessment universal, we aimed to base it on the patient's history and a simple chewing efficiency test (CET) as the dental status is a known determinant for chewing efficiency. The assessment was developed using data from 169 patients from two sites (University Hospital Giessen, St. Bonifatius Hospital Lingen, both Germany). In all patients, a dental examination was performed, the denture status was evaluated (based on the California Dental Association criteria; CDA criteria), and the DTN was determined. In addition, the time since the patient's last visit to a dentist (TLVD) and denture age (DA) were assessed. Furthermore, a CET was carried out and the comminution score was determined (CETS). In total, 108 patients required dental treatment. The mean value (±SD) was 2.9±0.9 score points for the DTN, 2.5±3.8years for the TLVD, and 10.8±8.9years for the DA. There was a significant correlation (Spearman, P<.05) between the DTN and degree of comminution (3.4±1.8). Based on the results of the statistical analysis, the intended assessment tool was developed using the variables CETS, TLVD, and DA weighed by their respective regression coefficients (10:3:1). Subsequently, the resulting MDA score (51.32±28.14) was calculated. A sensitivity/specificity analysis was conducted and a receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated (SPSS 17.0, area under curve 0.805; 95% CI 0.738-0.873). It can be concluded that the dental status of elderly patients is reflected in the outcome of the MDA. However, ongoing validation is needed. DRKS00003219.