English summary Oral hygiene and dental treatment for institutionalized old people 138-43 Implementation of prophylactic measures significantly reduces the strain on human and economic resources. The consequences of lacking oral maintenance are well known: loss of teeth, deteriorating oral and general health, social stigmatization, nutritional problems, pain etc. Obstacles to optimal oral and dental care exist on several levels and are usually caused by inadequate interaction between different providers of dental care. In Nordic countries most people die in nursing homes and palliative oral care entails a better possibility for a dignified end to their lives.