Failure to Arrange Timely Dental Services for Resident Needing Denture Replacement
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure timely dental services for one resident who required removal of permanent dental implants in order to be fitted with new lower dentures. The resident, who was cognitively intact and required assistance with daily activities, reported that her lower snap-in dentures did not fit properly and that her upper dentures were loose, making it difficult for her to chew. Observations confirmed that the resident had two screws implanted in her lower gums and had to frequently adjust her upper dentures. The care plan documented the resident as edentulous and included general interventions for dental care, but did not include any follow-up or plan to address the issues with her lower dentures or to replace the snap-in dentures. A dental provider's progress note indicated that the resident's upper and lower dentures were several years old, that she no longer wore the lower denture due to discomfort from exposed dental implants, and that she wanted the implants removed and new dentures made. The plan was to refer her to a specialty dental clinic for implant removal. However, a review of the electronic medical record did not reveal any documentation of communication with the specialty clinic or with the resident's representative to coordinate care for her dentures. Staff interviews confirmed that, although a referral was intended, there was no evidence of timely follow-up or documentation to ensure the resident received the necessary dental services.