Domain 11. Safety-protection
Class 2. Physical injury
Diagnostic Code: 00048
Nanda label: Impaired dentition
Diagnostic focus: Dentition
Nursing diagnosis is a core element of delivering patient centered care. It is defined as “a clinical judgment concerning a human response to health conditions/life processes, or vulnerability for that response, by an individual, family, group, or community.” Nursing diagnosis is based on the nursing process which assesses patient data, diagnoses problems, sets goals, implements a plan and evaluates the outcome in regard to patient health. Through the effective utilization of nursing diagnosis, nurses are able to tailor the care they provide to the individual needs of each patient.
NANDA Nursing Diagnosis Definition
Impaired dentition is defined by NANDA as a disorder in which the teeth are dysfunctional or not present in adequate numbers and/or positions to support a quality of life and optimal food digestion or nutrition. This diagnosis is commonly found in individuals who suffer from poor oral hygiene or inadequate dental care.
Defining Characteristics
Subjective characteristics associated with impaired dentition include complaints of pain or discomfort when eating or drinking, difficulty chewing or biting, changes in taste sensation and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene.
Objective characteristics may include tooth decay, gum disease, broken or lost teeth, loose teeth, cavities, worn enamel and xerostomia (dry mouth).
There are several factors that may lead to impaired dentition. Poor oral hygiene habits, such as not brushing and flossing regularly, can cause plaque to build up on the teeth which can lead to decay and infection. Lack of regular dental visits increases the risk of developing cavities and other dental problems. Certain medications, such as antacids, antidepressants, and anti-diarrheal drugs, can cause dry mouth which makes it difficult to properly clean the teeth. Inadequate nutrition and poor diet can also contribute to tooth decay.
At Risk Population
There are certain populations that are at higher risk for impaired dentition. These include children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, individuals with disabilities, and people with limited access to dental care.
Associated Conditions
Impaired dentition can lead to other serious health conditions such as malnutrition, gum disease, and infections. It can also lead to changes in facial structure due to broken or missing teeth, speech problems caused by those changes, and psychological problems such as self-esteem issues stemming from the perceived change in appearance.
Suggestions of Use
When considering interventions for impaired dentition, it is important to identify the underlying cause. While proper oral hygiene is always necessary, it may also be necessary to adjust medications and dietary habits. Counseling regarding proper oral hygiene practices and providing access to regular dental care is essential. In some cases, restorative or cosmetic dental treatments may be necessary.
Suggested Alternative NANDA Nursing Diagnosis
Alternative nursing diagnoses related to impaired dentition might include Risk for Infection, Knowledge Deficit, Self Care Deficit and Social Isolation.
Usage Tips
When utilizing nursing diagnosis for impaired dentition, it is important to look at the whole person, as well as their physical condition. Pay attention to any feelings or beliefs the patient has about their mouth or teeth, as well as any emotional, social, economic or cultural factors that could affect their oral health care.
NOC Outcomes
When working with patients who suffer from impaired dentition, the following NOC outcomes should be considered: Oral Health Status, Nutritional Status, Comfort Level and Social Well-Being.
Explanation
Oral Health Status refers to the patient’s ability to maintain oral hygiene and oral health. Nutritional Status represents the patient’s ability to get the proper nutrients through eating and drinking. Comfort Level measures the amount of pain, discomfort or mental distress the patient feels in relation to their condition. Social Well-Being speaks to the ways that the patient’s oral health affects their relationships and interaction with others.
Evaluation Objectives and Criteria
The evaluation objectives and criteria for nursing diagnosis of impaired dentition should include assessing level of understanding of oral health care, measuring patient comfort levels, evaluating the patient’s ability to perform daily activities, determining the patient’s social interactions, and assessing the patient’s ability to get proper nutrients through eating and drinking.
NIC Interventions
Common NIC interventions used in the treatment of impaired dentition include verbal education, dental hygiene instructions and comfort measures.
Explanation
Verbal education is important in empowered patient care, as it allows the patient to understand the importance of proper oral hygiene, as well as the risks of not following through on good oral hygiene practices. Dental hygiene instructions will help the patient to identify their specific oral hygiene needs, and how to properly practice good oral hygiene. Comfort measures are important to ease pain and discomfort, both physical and emotional.
Nursing Activities
Nursing activities related to treatment of impaired dentition include assessing the patient’s level of understanding of oral health care, ensuring the patient practices proper oral hygiene, providing access to dental care, monitoring changes in oral health, providing comfort measures, and evaluating the patient’s nutritional status.
Conclusion
Nursing diagnosis of impaired dentition is a multi-faceted process which requires close attention to the physical, psychological, and social needs of the patient. Through proper assessment, interventions, and evaluations, nurses can ensure that their patients receive the best care possible, tailored to their individual needs.
FAQs
- What is Impaired Dentition?
Impaired dentition is a disorder in which the teeth are dysfunctional or not present in adequate numbers and/or positions to support a quality of life and optimal food digestion or nutrition. - What Causes Impaired Dentition?
Common causes of impaired dentition include poor oral hygiene, lack of regular dental care, certain medications, inadequate nutrition, and poor diet. - Who Is At Risk for Impaired Dentition?
People who are at higher risk for impaired dentition include children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses, individuals with disabilities, and people with limited access to dental care. - What Are Some Complications Associated With Impaired Dentition?
Impaired dentition can lead to other serious health conditions such as malnutrition, gum disease, and infections. It can also lead to changes in facial structure, speech problems and psychological problems such as self-esteem issues. - What Are Some Nurses Interventions for Impaired Dentition?
Nurses interventions for impaired office may include assessing patient understanding of oral health care, providing access to regular dental care, counseling on proper oral hygiene habits, providing comfort measures, and assessing patient nutritional status.