This study was conducted at Prince Sultan Military Medical City (PSMMC) to assess the oral healthcare needs of homebound individuals under the care of the Home Care Department. Of the 5600 patients receiving care, 2565 were actively visited by home care staff. A dental home care survey team virtually screened all active patients. Among the 2565, 633 (25%) were identified as requiring dental home care, while 1932 were excluded due to various reasons. The patients who consented to dental screenings were grouped according to their geographic district, and home visits for dental evaluations were conducted. Patients were then classified according to the dental treatments needed. Of those screened, 63% required prosthetics, 23% required restorative procedures, and 35% required minor oral surgeries. In addition, 205 patients (12%) could not receive treatment outside of a hospital due to medical conditions or the complexity of their dental needs; however, they were eligible for follow-up visits and routine dental checkups at home to monitor for early oral infections or potential malignant diseases, while also providing education on oral hygiene. While a dental clinic remains the most ideal setting for dental treatment, domiciliary care is a viable option for certain cases. This study will contribute to the development of guidelines, resource allocation, staffing, and budgeting for services of dental home care at PSMMC.
