Position Statement

Given the particular oral health challenges faced by seniors in care facilities and the importance of oral health to overall health, the following should be the minimum oral care requirements for all residents in long-term care in Canada:

• Oral health assessment by an appropriately trained and licensed/registered health professional upon admission and annually thereafter;
• Beginning as soon as possible after admission, a referral process to a dentist for examination, diagnosis and treatment planning;
• A daily mouth care plan that is implemented by appropriately trained staff;
• Suitable infrastructure to support the appropriate delivery of needed care by the oral health care team.

CDA Board of Directors
Approved: June 2016