What is geriatric dentistry?
Dr. Jayme A. Oliveira Filho (Dr. O) was born in Brazil on 1976. He finished his dental school at Federal University of Ceara School of Dentistry in 1999. Dr. O practiced dentistry in Brazil for 5 years until, where he did his post-graduation in dental prosthetics. He moved with his family to the United States in 2003 to... more
Geriatric dentistry, also known as gerodontics or geriatric oral healthcare, is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the dental and oral health needs of older adults, typically those aged 65 and older. This branch of dentistry recognizes that as people age, they may face unique oral health challenges and considerations that require specialized care and attention.
The aging process can have a significant impact on oral health, and geriatric dentistry addresses these changes to ensure that older adults maintain optimal oral health and quality of life. Some of the key aspects of geriatric dentistry include:
- Oral Health Assessment: Geriatric dentists conduct comprehensive oral health assessments to identify existing dental issues and potential problems. They consider factors such as dental and medical history, medications, mobility limitations, and cognitive function when assessing an older patient's oral health needs.
- Dental Care for Chronic Conditions: Older adults often have a higher prevalence of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Geriatric dentists are trained to understand how these conditions can impact oral health and how dental care might need to be adjusted to accommodate these medical factors.
- Medication Management: Many older adults take multiple medications, some of which can have oral health implications. Geriatric dentists work with healthcare providers to understand the potential side effects of medications and adjust dental treatments accordingly.
- Management of Dry Mouth: Dry mouth (xerostomia) is a common issue among older adults, often caused by medications or medical conditions. Geriatric dentists address this issue to prevent dental decay and discomfort.
- Gum Disease Treatment: Older adults are more susceptible to gum disease (periodontal disease). Geriatric dentists provide treatments and strategies to manage and prevent gum disease, which can have broader implications for overall health.
- Denture Care: Many older adults wear dentures or other dental prosthetics. Geriatric dentists help with the fitting, maintenance, and adjustment of dentures to ensure proper function and comfort.
- Oral Cancer Screenings: Regular oral cancer screenings are an essential part of geriatric dental care due to the increased risk of oral cancers in older populations.
- Preventive Care: Geriatric dentists emphasize preventive care to help older adults maintain their natural teeth for as long as possible. This includes regular dental cleanings, oral hygiene education, and guidance on proper nutrition for oral health.
- Collaboration with Healthcare Providers: Geriatric dentists often work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, including geriatricians, primary care physicians, and specialists, to ensure comprehensive care for older adults.
The goal of geriatric dentistry is to improve the oral health and overall quality of life for older adults. By addressing the unique challenges and needs of this population, geriatric dentists play a crucial role in helping older individuals maintain good oral health, which in turn can have positive effects on their overall health and well-being.
As the global population continues to age, the importance of geriatric dentistry becomes increasingly significant in providing specialized care to an expanding demographic that requires tailored attention and solutions for their oral health needs.
