Nursing Home Abuse: Report Reveals Poor Dental Care in Facilities Nationwide

An investigation by the New York Times has revealed a form of nursing home abuse that’s often overlooked.  That is dental care. Many elderly nursing home residents across the nation are not getting the correct and sufficient amount of dental care. The results of such abuse can be devastating and lead to pain and long-term complications.

Dental Care an Often Overlooked Form of Nursing Home Abuse

From chipped teeth, cavities, gingivitis and periodontitis, residents in U.S. nursing homes are being overlooked when it comes to dental care. Each resident needs to have proper access to dental care.  Sadly, reports show that far too many nursing homes are not providing these services. 

For example, the family of a Roanoke, Virginia nursing home resident noticed dust on his electric toothbrush during a family visit. Rather than wait on the nursing home staff to brush his teeth, his daughter decided to brush her father’s teeth herself. The resident started having severe headaches soon afterwards. After a dentist appointment arranged by family, it was determined that he had a broken, chipped tooth that was never tended to.

“I was livid. I’m there everyday, pointing out he’s in pain–and he had dental insurance. So there’s no reason this wasn’t addressed,” said Ford.

Even when residents are getting the proper dental services, many staff members are unprepared and under-trained. This makes it difficult for staff to handle residents who resist dental care. However, dental neglect can lead to far worse problems for these residents. Dental neglect can cause excruciating pain and even pneumonia, which is the number one cause of death in nursing homes.

Have Questions about Dental Care and Nursing Home Abuse?

Do you have questions about dental care and nursing home abuse? If so, an experienced nursing home abuse attorney can assist you.  At MedMalFirm.com, our team of dedicated nursing home abuse lawyers have the skills and knowledge you need to find answers and pursue justice.

Nursing home abuse is never acceptable, and you deserve to fight back. We can help. Find out more by calling us at 877-887-4850, or by completing our online contact form.