A recent blog article in the New York Times discussed the fact that in some nursing homes, due to short staffing, many residents are not receiving the proper oral care. 

This can have serious consequences – from the terrible pain of tooth decay and damage, to gum disease, to pneumonia.  Apparently poor oral care can lead to pneumonia, a leading killer of elderly in nursing homes. 

Proper staffing is always at the root of these problems.  Having enough caring and well trained aides is critical to making sure the proper care is given.

To read the article, click here.