Abstract
Healthy oral cavity is an integral part of overall health and influences significantly quality of life of older people. Despite common health probems in oral cavity many seniors report poor oral care.
Higher prevalence of dental carries, periodontal problems and loss of teeth contribute to chewing difficulties, nutritional problems, worsening of chronic morbidity and negativěly influence quality of life and wellbeing. The priority in gerontostomatologic care is to preserve patient's own teeth and ensure sufficient functionality of oral cavity, particularly during eating (chewing and swallowing).
In hospital and residential care improvement and monitoring of oral health is one of the key goals of the multidisciplinary team responsible for patient/resident care.