Preventive Dentistry

Gerodontics or geriatric dentistry is the delivery of dental care to older adults, involving the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of problems associated with normal aging and age related diseases.

Due to discoveries in medication, folks sometimes have a much longer life span than in earlier times. This rise in survival expectancy is accredited also to the reduction in mortality at different stages in life, which has been brought about by improved health care facilities, sanitation, environmental and public health reforms and also better cleanliness and living conditions. The proportion of the aged in developed countries by 2050 is predicted to be around twenty percent.

The old patient may have some of many dental issues common to their age grouping. These include root caries, periodontal disease, missing teeth due to earlier neglect, ill-fitting dentures, oral ulceration, dry mouth, oral cancers and caries.

These problems may have been brought about because of neglect in earlier life, such as a poor diet, poor oral hygiene practices, like the failure to brush and floss the teeth regularly, and habits like smoking. Financial constraints and lack of family support may also contribute to poor oral health in the later stages of life. The eating of food, speech and ultimately the quality of life of the elderly may thus be compromised. Multiple medical conditions, the loss of independence, and uninformed attitudes about dental care in old age may also be barriers to proper dental care.

Geriatric dentistry needs patience and time on the part of the dentist. He have to understand the actual fears and anxiety which a patient could have about visiting the dentist. The old person might have particular health problems like dementia, depression, Parkinson’s disease, rheumatism or muscle fatigue, all common infirmities suffered by the elderly. Though such patients need more time and understanding on the part of the dentist, they are regularly incapable of paying large amounts because of the monetary inhibitions imposed by their age.

When selecting an appropriate dentist Melbourne for someone over 65, find one who understands the particular issues faced by the elderly. Gum illness and tooth loss are widespread in the over 65′s because of poor dental care generations back when there had been less oral education. Finding a dentist with a periodontal disease speciality would be ideal or failing that, the dentist should have someone that makes a speciality of this area working in his office. Lots of the older population wear dentures, so it’d be advisable to discover a dentist who makes and cares for these appliances.

Adultonset diabetes is a disease which many older folks have. This puts such folk at risk of oral infection after surgery, so a dentist experienced in treating older patients would be recommendable. Such a dentist would have knowledge of handling diabetic patients and be well placed to supply the additional attention needed.

If you are at a loss to find a suitable dentist, ask friends in this older age group if they visit a dentist Prahran they feel comfortable with. A personal recommendation is often the very best way to go with geriatric dentistry.