Oral health status and oral treatment needs of dependent elderly people in Christchurch.

Aim: To describe the general health, oral health status, and treatment needs of dependent older people living in Christchurch rest homes.

Methods: 210 Grade 3 residents from seven randomly selected care facilities were examined for: dental/denture status, caries, periodontal disease, and oral cleanliness.

Results: Age ranged from 65 to 103 with an average age of 84.