Geriatric Dentistry

Aging is inevitable, every day we live we age. Education in geriatric medicine is in its infancy in India and geriatric dentistry is non-existent. The physiological processes of ageing and the gradual diminution in acuity of the five senses are facts, but the rate at which they occur shows great variation. Geriatric dentistry emphasizes dental care for the elderly population and focuses upon patients with chronic physiological, physical and/or psychological changes or morbid conditions/ diseases. Oral health reflects overall well-being for the elderly population. Conversely, elderly patients are more susceptible to oral conditions due to age-related systemic diseases and functional changes/decay. Oral health evaluation should be an integral part of the physical examination, and dentistry is essential to qualify geriatric patient care. In the elderly population poor oral health has been considered a risk factor for general health problems.