Dentist trip

blacksparky · June 13

I’m taking my DW to the dentist next week for the first time since she was diagnosed 2 years ago. She is currently in stages5/6. Has anyone had any problems with their LO at the dentist? Trying to prepare myself before I take her.

Timmyd · June 13

So far, my DW still does ok at the dentist. DW has been with this dental office since stage 4 (3.5 years ago) so they are all familiar with her and the progression. Lately it is just cleanings. The dentist has a good perspective on what work is "essential" given DW condition (early stage 6). I think it is important that all the people she will interact with at the office are informed in advance of her condition. I would also think that the treatment plan recommended would take her condition into account.

I think maintaining oral health is important. Dealing with serious dental situations in the later stages is something to be avoided. If you are not comfortable with how she is treated, then maybe look for a different dentist office. I know from experience that there are dentists and hygienists out there who are good at dealing with ALZ patients and adjusting treatments accordingly.

annie51 · June 13

My DH isn’t very good with his oral hygiene at home so his hygienist suggested quarterly cleanings and it has worked out pretty well so far. He’s in Stage 6 now. I’ll add that his hygienist is a very bubbly, smily person who DH has always liked, so that helps. One time she tried to do some extra cleaning because of the larger amount of plaque and could tell he was getting to the point where he wanted to get up to leave. He did get quite frustrated but she adjusted the routine on the next visit.

I would definitely try to inform them of her condition if they’re not already aware. Wishing you good luck!

cdgbdr · June 13

DH is Stage 5-6. His dental office has witnessed his progression and seems to genuinely care about him. So far, so good, but he loves them.

Scooterr · June 13

My DW is in stage 6 the last time we went was 2 months ago and it was a little rough. One issue is her extreme anxiety, so I gave her a early dose of medication to calm her. Next issues was keeping her mouth open, which was solved with a mouth gag to hold her mouth open while teeth was cleaned and so on, The main problem was they switched hygienist on us. My DW was use to our regular hygienist which is awesome. The reason she is so awesome, her mother had AD. and has DW for patient for sometime now. Main thing keep everything as clam and normal that is in your control and make sure to inform. the office of her AD. and any issue associated with her AD. It is stressful for me and maybe going to be for you. Just try and remain as calm as possible and that will help your DW. Hang in there and good luck

l7pla1w2 · June 14

Related, but different….

I placed DW in MC two months ago. She's due for a routine cleaning and check-up, and I believe oral health is very important for overall health. However, I cannot take DW out of the MCF for fear I won't be able to get her to return.

The MCF works with a dental group that does home visits for people who can't get out. The dental team actually brings in a portable set-up and can do many procedures on the spot. DW will probably see them in the MCF next week for the first time. Because the dental group works with PWD all the time, I assume they're real good at handling patients.

However, not surprisingly, they're expensive, and they don't take insurance directly, though they will help with paperwork I could submit myself.

ARIL · June 14

I moved my parent WD (about stage 5/6) to MC near me last year. We have had two dental cleanings since then at my dentist, and they have gone well—for all the same reasons that other people report. Everything was calm, the hygienist and dentist were friendly, the dentist understands what’s going on and how to think about “essential” services in this situation. They have let me come into the room, even though it’s crowded, and I can stand there and be cheerful and encouraging as needed. :)

The MCF has a relationship with a dentist who comes there, but I plan to continue taking my LO to my own dentist as long as we can.

SiberianIris · June 14

My 96 yo mother is in Stage 5. She is very cooperative at the dentist. Her dentist is dementia-aware and makes treatment recommendations appropriate to her age. At her last checkup, she had 2 cavities after decades of none, so she now has cleanings quarterly. Mom brushes her teeth, however, she now has a penchant for drinking juices and will grab one at every opportunity, so I think that was a major contributor to decay. Memory care is in her not too distant future, and I HOPE where she goes has a dentist that comes to the facility.

Pat6177 · June 14

In late 4/early5, DH started tipping the hygienist $5. He told me she did a good job. Now in 6 and has mobility issues and is in a MCF. I canceled his upcoming cleaning appt cuz some days he’s too confused or weak to get in and out of the car.

HollyBerry · June 16

My SO does ok during the actual appointment (I guess), but is socially awkward bordering on inappropriate in the waiting room. She walked up to some woman and touched her clothing, which startled her, and then tried to make conversation, which didn't go over well. If I try to say something or intervene, she will start yelling at me and no longer has any qualms about behaving in public the same way she behaves at home. We hardly ever see anyone else in the waiting room at her other appointments, so she doesn't get regular "practice" in how to behave, not that she'd remember.

Do you ever ask if you can wait in the car, instead of the waiting room? They could text us when the provider was ready — like we did during Covid. It might be less stressful for all involved.

Pier Walker · June 17

I let the dentist know about 3 years ago. We were just there yesterday for cleanings and in their new office. They are making a point to have us at opposite ends of the office so he can come and talk with me about her and not have her feel left out or like we're talking about her without her. They come and ask me all the medical questions etc. They are just great with her. They know how to dance this dance…reach out to them and let them help you!

trottingalong · June 17

our dentist is great and I made them aware of his situation. I’m always in the room with him during any discussion of future care. We have to drive an hour and a half next week because he needs a root canal. Getting him in a car is my biggest challenge.

Dentist trip

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