Evaluating oral health risks in elderly patients with multiple health conditions

A pragmatic risk index evaluating the elderly with comorbidity for oral health event times

['FUNDING_R21'] · VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY · NIH-10694974

This study looks at how different health issues, especially in older adults, can affect their dental health and the chances of losing teeth, with the goal of creating a tool to help predict and improve dental care for seniors.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (RICHMOND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10694974 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how various health conditions, particularly in elderly patients, affect their oral health and the likelihood of tooth loss. By analyzing large databases that contain information on oral health and associated health risks, the study aims to develop a risk index that can help predict dental health outcomes. The approach involves sophisticated statistical methods to handle complex data, which can provide insights into how comorbidities like diabetes impact oral health. Ultimately, this research seeks to inform better dental care strategies for older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are elderly individuals aged 65 and older who have multiple health conditions, particularly those with diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have any comorbid health conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dental care strategies that enhance tooth retention and overall oral health for elderly patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using large epidemiological databases to assess health risks, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.

Where this research is happening

RICHMOND, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.