Home Dental Care for a Hemiplegic Geriatric Patient with Drug-induced Gingival Hyperplasia and Generalized Periodontitis

A BSTRACT Geriatric patients have special dental care needs due to their increased vulnerability to systemic conditions and care dependency. It is preferable that such patients be treated at their place of residence to avoid neglect of dental care due to inaccessibility or disability. The present case report describes one such case of home healthcare provided to a geriatric patient suffering from disability and requiring special oral healthcare needs. The objective of the report was to add to the modicum of literature available on the subject in India, in an attempt to generate awareness and promote home health care. Intensive periodontal therapy with mouthwash coverage was provided for the patient. A significant reduction in edema of the gingiva of both arches, as well as a well-maintained oral hygiene, was observed at the 3-month follow-up.