Geriatric Dentistry

Roopa K Thippanna

Department of Prosthodontics, College of Dental Sciences, Davangere, Karnataka, India

Corresponding Author: Roopa K Thippanna, Department of Prosthodontics, College of Dental Sciences, Davangere, Karnataka, India, Phone: +91 9880380503, e-mail: roopakt25@gmail.com

How to cite this article: Thippanna RK. Geriatric Dentistry. CODS J Dent 2023;15(2):31–32.

Source of support: Nil

Conflict of interest: None

Geriatric dentistry aims to deliver dental care to the older population, which considers diagnosis, prevention, management, and treatment of problems associated with age-related diseases.¹ The key aspects of geriatric dentistry, including the challenges and opportunities it presents, the impact of aging on oral health, preventive measures, treatment options, and the role of dental professionals in providing comprehensive care for older adults, need to be explored.

Aging presents a multitude of challenges in maintaining oral health. With increasing age, the risk of dental diseases, such as caries, periodontal lesions, mucosal lesions, and edentations increases.² Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is common among elderly people and is typically associated with decreased salivary gland function.³ Dry mouth can increase the risk of dental caries and gum disease.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Preventive care is a cornerstone of geriatric dentistry. Initial diagnosis is key to determining high-risk individuals. A prevention-based approach is important to reduce the incidence and severity of periodontal disease in the elderly.⁴ Routine cleanings and oral examinations can help to detect problems early and provide appropriate treatment.

Oral health education is crucial as many seniors may not be aware of the specific challenges they face due to aging. Most age-related problems can be prevented by providing proper nutritional care and food rich in nutrients and antioxidants to the aged people.⁵

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Management of oral health problems in older patients should be tailored to an individual’s specific needs, taking into consideration their systemic condition, medications, physical limitations, cognitive impairment, the planned restorative treatment, and their ability to maintain effective oral hygiene.⁴

Geriatric dentists are trained in a patient-centered approach that considers the unique needs and preferences of each elderly individual.

The interdisciplinary nature of geriatric dentistry involves collaboration with healthcare providers, caregivers, and support networks. Communication between dental professionals and other members of the healthcare team is crucial for providing comprehensive and integrated care for elderly patients.

Oral cancer screenings are a vital part of geriatric dentistry. There are opportunities for earlier detection and to reduce morbidity and mortality.⁴

Oral surgery procedures, such as tooth extractions, may be performed when required.

In elderly patients, periodontal disease is a major oral health concern, and maintenance of good oral hygiene is of paramount importance.⁶ Preventive and noninvasive treatment to control periodontal disease should be given more importance to the older population with existing comorbidities.⁴

Root caries is most commonly observed and it is necessary to take measures for caries prevention. Endodontic therapy, commonly known as root canal treatment, may also be necessary to save a tooth with extensive decay or infection.

Prosthodontics plays a significant role in geriatric dentistry, addressing the challenges of tooth loss and edentulism commonly observed in older adults. For the prosthetic restoration of the edentulous patient, the clinician has a wide range of treatment modalities available, ranging from relining or reparation of existing dentures to copying or transforming existing dentures, to constructing conventional complete dentures, implant-supported complete dentures, or metal-ceramic fixed prostheses.⁷ Prosthodontic interventions require careful consideration of the individual’s overall health, cognitive abilities, and ability to adapt to dental prosthetics.

Geriatric dentistry is a vital component of healthcare, ensuring that elderly individuals receive the oral care they require to maintain their quality of life. Thus, meticulous understanding of the chronic diseases the patient lives with daily plays a critical role in the acceptance and success of dental treatment plans.⁸ Preventive measures, tailored treatment options, and the involvement of dental professionals are key to addressing the unique oral health needs of older adults. Providing comprehensive and compassionate care for the elderly is essential to ensuring that they can continue to enjoy good oral health and a high quality of life in their later years.

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8. Razak PA, Richard KM, Thankachan RP, et al. Geriatric oral health: a review article. J Int Oral Health 2014;6(6):110–116. PMID: 25628498.

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