Dentition and Diet

Course Description

Course Description:

For clinicians involved with patients diagnosed with dysphagia utilize information revealed from the bedside evaluation and instrumental assessments to develop a therapy plan, determine the highest appropriate diet and mealtime strategies/precautions to be implemented to keep the individual safe.  In making these determinations, the role of dentition and oral care is critical.  This seminar builds on our basis knowledge providing a more detailed understanding of the role of specific teeth in the mastication process. Bite force is different in individuals with natural teeth versus dentures versus the edentulous individual and impacts diet selection. Mouth care is critical for all residents; however, poor care contributes to increased risk of aspiration pneumonia from bacteria-laden saliva and may contribute to additional health issues especially for patients with diabetes and cancer.  Free water protocols are dependent on consistent mouth care.  Ill-fitting dentures may require denture adhesives to improve fit, but can be a challenge for mouth care. Protocols for mouth care will be addressed for natural teeth, dentures and the edentulous individual. Bite force, mastication skills and dentition status are key factors in selecting the appropriate diet level on the National Dysphagia Diet and the IDDSI. In addition, recommended mealtime strategies and precautions must be implemented by caregivers.  These strategies and precautions should be part of the patients plan of care for improved safety at mealtime and are directly related to dentition status, diet selection and adequate mouth-care.