Research Article

Oral Health Care for Geriatric Service in Faculty of Dentistry. University of Health Sciences, Laos

Abstract

Background: Populations worldwide are aging rapidly, bringing significant physiological shifts, immunosenescence (age-related immune decline), and structural changes to oral tissues. Poor oral health drastically compromises geriatric quality of life, affecting mastication (chewing), speech, nutritional intake, and psychosocial well-being. Furthermore, the oral cavity serves as a major gateway for pathogens that can trigger or worsen systemic conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the oral health status, treatment utilization patterns, and systemic comorbidity profiles of elderly patients (aged 60 years and older) seeking clinical care at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Laos. Methods: A collecting data using interview forms and oral examinations among the population aged 60 years come to service at dental clinic Faculty of dentistry University of health Sciences Lao PDR. Results: The study population (N = 360) comprised 55.6% females (n = 200) and 44.4% males (n = 160). Age distribution was stratified as follows: Young old (60–64 years): 45.9% (n = 165), Middle-old (65–69 years): 36.9% (n = 133), Old-old (age 70 years): 17.2% (n = 62). Conclusion: Systemic Comorbidity and Medication Profiles A striking 88.8% (n = 320) of the sample population suffered from concurrent systemic comorbidities. Within this medically compromised group: Hypertension was the most prevalent condition, affecting 60.0% (n = 192). Diabetes mellitus was present in 29.7% (n = 95). Other systemic diseases accounted for 10.3% (n = 33).Pharmacological adherence stood at 60.9% (n = 195) taking regular prescribed medications, leaving 39.1% (n = 125) unmedicated. Dentition Status and Treatment Utilization Severe Tooth Loss: Only 22.8% (n = 82) of participants maintained a functional dentition of more than 20 natural teeth. Conversely, 77.2% (n = 278) presented with fewer than 20 remaining teeth.

Authors affiliation:

Souksida Xaykhambanh: Faculty of Dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Laos.
Chanthavisao Phunthanalay: Faculty of Dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Laos. 
Chanvilay Soukhaseum: Faculty of Dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Laos.
Sombath Atsaphangthong: Setthathirath Hospital, Laos.
Patay Vongsathiane: University of Health Sciences, Laos.
Kamkeo Boupha: University of Health Sciences, Laos.
Siviengthong Boutviseth: University of Health Sciences, Laos.

How to Cite: S. Xaykhambanh, C. Phunthanalay, C. Soukhaseum, S. Atsaphangthong, P. Vongsathiane, K. Boupha and S. Boutviseth. Oral Health care for Geriatric Service in Faculty of dentistry. University of Health Sciences, Laos. Journal of Applied Health Sciences and Medicine, 6(6):35–40, 2026. https://doi.org/10.58614/jahsm667