The dentition, or the condition of the teeth and oral structures, plays a crucial role in overall health and well-being. Factors such as poor oral hygiene, inadequate nutrition, and certain medical conditions can lead to deterioration of the dentition, leading to problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. The nursing diagnosis of “Deterioration of the Dentition” is used to identify and address these potential issues.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
According to NANDA International, the official definition of this diagnosis is: “A disruption in the normal structure and function of the teeth and oral structures due to identified factors, characterized by tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems.”
Defining Characteristics
Subjective:
- Patient reports tooth pain or sensitivity
- Patient reports difficulty eating or speaking
Objective:
- Observation of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems
- Positive results on dental examination (e.g. cavities, plaque buildup)
Related Factors
- Poor oral hygiene
- Inadequate nutrition
- Certain medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, HIV)
- Certain medications (e.g. antidepressants, diuretics)
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Age
- Poverty
Risk Population
- Individuals with poor oral hygiene
- Individuals with inadequate nutrition
- Individuals with certain medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, HIV)
- Individuals who smoke or use tobacco
- Individuals who consume alcohol excessively
- Elderly individuals
- Individuals living in poverty
Associated Problems
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Tooth loss
- Pain
- Difficulty eating or speaking
- Poor self-esteem
- Poor overall health
Suggestions for Use
- Assess the patient’s oral hygiene and provide instruction as needed
- Assess the patient’s nutrition and provide nutrition education as needed
- Assist the patient in managing any underlying medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, HIV)
- Monitor the patient for signs of oral health problems and implement appropriate interventions
- Provide oral care as needed, such as brushing and flossing instruction and dental cleanings
- Refer the patient to a dentist or dental hygienist as needed
- Educate the patient about the link between oral health and overall health and the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene
- Encourage the patient to quit smoking or using tobacco and reduce alcohol consumption
Suggested Alternative NANDA Diagnoses
- Impaired oral mucous membrane
- Impaired tooth mobility
- Impaired oral comfort
- Impaired oral health maintenance
Usage Tips
- Consider the patient’s overall health status and any underlying medical conditions when making a diagnosis
- Be specific when documenting the factors that contribute to deterioration of the dentition
- Consider using additional diagnoses to address associated problems (e.g. impaired oral comfort, impaired oral health maintenance)
NOC Results
- Oral Health: The patient’s teeth and oral structures are healthy and functioning properly
- Oral Hygiene: The patient’s oral hygiene is maintained and appropriate interventions are in place to prevent oral health problems
- Oral Mucous Membrane Integrity: The patient’s oral mucous membrane is intact and functioning properly
NIC Interventions
- Oral Care: Provide appropriate oral care such as brushing and flossing instruction and dental cleanings
- Referral: Refer the patient to a dentist or dental hygienist as needed
- Education: Provide education to the patient and their family on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and the link between oral health and overall health
- Smoking and Substance Use Cessation: Encourage the patient to quit smoking or using tobacco and reduce alcohol consumption
- Nutrition Management: Provide education on the importance of proper nutrition for oral health
Conclusion
The nursing diagnosis of “Deterioration of the Dentition” is an important tool for identifying and addressing potential issues related to the teeth and oral structures. By assessing for risk factors, providing appropriate interventions, and educating the patient, nurses can help to prevent deterioration of the dentition and promote overall health and well-being.