Sammanfattning
Background: People who experience stroke can develop increased oral problems caused by
paralysis of the face, mouth, tongue, and reduced mobility in using table cutlery and toothbrush.
There is little research about how physical limitations associated with eating, swallowing and dental
care influence caries development and quality of life for this population.
Objective: The aims for this study are to explore oral health and oral function by elderly stroke
survivors, as well as looking at possible links between oral function, general quality of life and oral
health-related quality of life.
Method: The study is a quantitative cross-sectional study. All members of the Norwegian association
for stroke survivors were invited to participate in the survey. Response rate was 46 % (N=293
participants). The study included socio-demographic variables, general quality of life (HUNT-5), oral
impact on daily performance (OIDP), dental health, dry mouth, consistence of food, time commitment
and confidence in the dining situation. Data were analysed with SPSS.
Results: The study shows that only 5 % were informed about dental care in the rehabilitation period
after stroke. A third experienced reduced oral health after stroke. Stroke survivors with less than 19
teeth and / or users of dentures had significantly poorer oral health-related quality of life compared
with those without dental prosthesis and more than 20 teeth. Dry mouth is the factor that influences
quality of life the most.
Conclusion: Information about dental care and oral hygiene must be more strongly focused on in
rehabilitation after stroke. To reduce the possibility of poorer oral health and deterioration of quality
of life, more systematic dental services for stroke patients at an earlier stage is necessary