Improving oral health care for the frail elderly: a review of widespread problems and best practices.

Oral health is an important component of overall health, well-being, and quality of life for institutionalized elders. Despite reports by nurses of the importance of oral hygiene, empirical evidence shows that daily oral care interventions have not been effective in safeguarding the oral and general health of this vulnerable population. Effective practice must involve not only recognizing its importance but also ensuring that daily oral hygiene receives the same priority as other care practices.