My dad is 87 and in a wheelchair. It would be extremely difficult for me to take him to a dental office, but he has always had regular dental care until he moved to his Memory Care Facility a year ago. Now they are providing in-house dental care from a visiting dentist. My dad has dental insurance, so I can file the claim with them. I'm assuming that dental care is important for him, even at his age.
When someone has a toothache, or their dnetures do not fit right, they cannot eat very well. Elders are constantly watched to make sure they have adequate intake of food. Maintenance dental care can really help that.
As FL is "God's Waiting Room", I am surprised facilities there have been obstructive of having visiting dental care!
equinox
YES! - Preventive care such as cleanings will keep your Dad from cavities and pain later. Dementia patients are less likely to clean their mouths well. And often cannot verbalize their dental pain. Food tastes better, and you will be preventing the bacteria that accumulates in his mouth from entering his blood stream and causing other complications. Gum disease really affects the heart and blood sugar.
Did I mention that I am a Dental Hygienist? At one time I provided care in nursing homes and Assisted Living facilities, but since moving to Florida I cannot get a facility to let me provide care.
Regulations at all facilities should provide for regular, accessable oral health care!
Good luck ... and if you do it, come back and let us know how it goes.