Social Exchange Theory holds that reciprocity in relationships is essential to well-being.
Reciprocity is difficult for dependent elders in nursing homes to manage.
Attitudes were significantly related to race, educational level and time employed in the nursing home, but not related to age, gender or total time worked in nursing homes. Inservice education to help nursing assistants use principles of reciprocity is encouraged. Perimenopausal women experience root caries, tooth abrasion, attrition and erosion, burning mouth syndrome, and dentinal hypersensitivity. Plaque control utilizing mechanical methods, such as toothbrushing and flossing and chemical methods to assist in preventing oral disease are important strategies to control dental disease and discomfort. Nutrition relationships and collaboration with oral health care providers are also key components to attaining and maintaining oral health.