Although final levels of residents' oral health were still short of ideal, this study clearly shows that, for a modest cost, OHCE can improve caregivers' knowledge, attitudes and oral health care performance for elderly, functionally dependent clients.
The OHCE was well received and resulted in improved oral health care knowledge and attitudes. When viewed with separately reported trial results of clients' oral health status, knowledge and attitude score improvements coincided with improved delivery of oral health care.
Most residents required help with oral health care but many did not receive it. Residents' levels of plaque and associated dental disease were high. Staff did not effectively perform oral health care appropriate to residents' needs. Further research to evaluate an oral health care training programme for care staff is planned.
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