Prevalence of Self-reported Medical Conditions and Drugs Used in Periodontally Compromised Geriatric Population

Background and aims. An absolute knowledge of a patient’s medical problems, especially in geriatrics, is crucial for providing safe and appropriate dental treatment in the context of any systemic disorders, intake of medications, or other oral pathologies. The purpose of this article was to determine the prevalence of self-reported medical conditions and drugs used in periodontally compromised geriatric population. Materials and methods. Information regarding age, sex, medical conditions, and drug used was recorded from interview of 2480 periodontally compromised patients (age ≥ 60 years) and analysed with chi-square test. Results. 72.8% of patients reported a positive finding in medical histories with most frequent problems being bone/joint dysfunction, hypertension, allergy, diabetes mellitus, eye/ear dysfunction, and cardiovascular diseases. 58% of patients were taking at least one medication. Non-significant differences were recorded with male and female patients. Conclusion. With regards to the observed high prevalence of medically-compromised geriatric dental patients, dentists should consider the conditions that are contraindicated for certain dental procedures or medications.