Geriatric Dentistry

Geriatric dentistry or ‘Geridontics’ is the delivery of dental care to older adults involving the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of problems associated with age related diseases and problems. The demographic of older adults (65 years of age and older) is growing and is likely to create a larger demand for geriatric dental care in the coming years. Dental professionals can play an integral part in helping this population overcome changes in their health that may affect their oral health in relation to their age. 

As we grow older, we often develop special dental needs especially regarding our dental care. The dental needs of the elderly are continuously changing and growing therefore the need for good quality geriatric dental care is also increasing.

In most general dental practices, the proportion of older adults is even greater and the elderly patients often account for a higher percentage of practice patients within each passing year.

Older patients are a growing demographic for dental practices all around the UK. While the statistics state that around 5% of adults over the ages of 65 are edentulous, increased numbers of older adults seem to be retaining more of their natural teeth compared to previous generations. 

The health status of adults over the age of 65 are quite varied. It often ranges quite a lot. Older adults may regularly use several prescriptions and/or over-the counter medications, making them vulnerable to dental related side effects, any medication errors, drug interactions or adverse drug reactions. Potential sensory, cognitive, and physical impairments associated with aging may make home oral health care and patient education quite challenging which is why Geriatric Dental care is so important.

Geriatric dental care needs to have significant importance especially if you are over the age of 60. This care can prevent and may even be able to eliminate certain oral diseases associated with age related health issues that directly or indirectly affect your oral health. This includes stroke, diabetes and even heart disease. It is important to understand that all these conditions will and do directly affect your oral health no matter what your age is.

We like to work on preventative treatment rather than treating the problems after the fact.

It is a common myth that as you age your teeth will naturally all fall out. This is all highly dependent on how well you care for your oral health as you slowly age. This included continually visiting the dentist and showing up to your routine check-ups.

We recommend that patients over the age of 60 should visit the dentist for a routine check up twice a year. However, routine dental care is imperative at any age you may be and whether you still have teeth or not. No matter what age or stage you are with your oral health, you need to carry out a dentist approved dental routine twice a day.

So, if your loved one requires elderly dental care, they should be seen at least twice a year.

As with any age, proper oral hygiene is vital for good oral health. During the patient’s dental check-up, the dentist will review the necessary oral hygiene being used and will recommend what you can use and what routine you should carry out that will work to your specific needs. Although this is usually specialised to the patient in question, generally speaking, seniors should usually: 

–        Brush your teeth or gums twice a day (usually before breakfast and right before going to bed).

–        Try to floss once a day.

–        Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

(Tap water is great as it usually contains fluoride).

–        See your dentist on a regular basis for specialised elderly dental care, cleanings, and oral exams.

Getting older puts many patients at risk of a number or oral health issues such as:

Gum disease:

This is caused by the bacteria in plaque in the teeth. This usually irritates the gums making them swollen and very likely to bleed while you brush your teeth. Gum disease is a widespread disease amongst many adults of any age mostly because it is often a painless condition that is easily overlooked until the advanced stage.

Many older adults have receding gums. This means that cavities are more likely to develop at the root of the tooth leading to decay. Dry mouth also causes bacteria to build up in the mouth quite easily which is quite common amongst older adults. 

Tooth loss:

There are several factors that can contribute to tooth loss as many people get older. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss. 

Dry mouth:

Dry mouth is caused by reduced saliva flow. Sometimes this can be a direct result of medications or any treatments a patient could be having and sometimes it happens naturally as some people age. Many medications can cause dry mouth.

Root decay: 

Root decay is more common amongst the elderly as it is caused by the exposure of the tooth root to acids that commonly cause tooth decay. When the gum tissue recedes from the tooth, the tooth roots become exposed. The roots of the teeth themselves do not have any enamel to protect them and are therefore more prone to decay than the actual tooth.