Oral health status in older immigrants in a medium-sized Swedish city.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate oral health and oral care habits among older immigrants to Sweden from countries outside the Nordic region. Participants ≥60 years of age from senior social centers for immigrants were invited to attend oral examinations. Data was collected on the number of teeth, dentures, caries, periodontal status, saliva secretion, and plaque scores. Participants also described their general health and oral care habits. Fourteen men and 28 women, median age 71.5 years, participated. Seventeen percent were edentulous, women often than men. Three out of four had caries and 63% had gingival bleeding. Two-thirds brushed their teeth twice per day and 60% had visited dental services in the last 2 years. The group had a high prevalence of oral diseases and discomfort. They used dental services and brushed their teeth less frequently than Swedish populations of the same age.