Geriatric Dentistry addresses the unique oral health needs of the aging population, focusing on prevention, diagnosis, and management of dental conditions in older adults. This session emphasizes interdisciplinary care, chronic disease management, and strategies to maintain function, comfort, and quality of life for elderly individuals.
🔹 Aging & Oral Health Challenges
Physiological changes in the oral cavity with aging
Xerostomia, reduced salivary flow, and medication-induced oral complications
Increased susceptibility to caries, periodontal disease, and root caries
Impact of cognitive and physical limitations on oral health
🔹 Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment
Multidimensional evaluation of oral, functional, cognitive, and medical status
Risk assessment for dental treatment planning
Personalized oral care based on systemic health and mobility
🔹 Management of Common Geriatric Oral Conditions
Chronic periodontitis and its systemic connections
Oral mucosal lesions, candidiasis, and oral cancer screening
Management of edentulism, ill-fitting dentures, and prosthetic rehabilitation
Addressing temporomandibular disorders in elderly patients
🔹 Prosthodontics & Implant Care for Seniors
Complete and partial dentures: design, function & comfort
Implant-supported prostheses in geriatric patients
Considerations for bone loss, systemic conditions, and financial limitations
Maintenance strategies for long-term success
🔹 Special Care for Medically Compromised Elderly Patients
Dental considerations in patients with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, dementia, and Parkinson’s
Safe prescribing practices and drug interactions
Modifications in treatment planning based on systemic health
🔹 Care in Long-Term & Community Settings
Oral hygiene care in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities
Training caregivers and healthcare professionals
Barriers to care and strategies to improve access for elderly populations
🔹 Preventive Strategies & Quality of Life
Tailored preventive programs for seniors
Nutrition counseling and lifestyle modifications
Pain management, palliative care, and end-of-life dental considerations
This session provides a valuable platform for geriatric dentists, prosthodontists, dental hygienists, caregivers, public health professionals, and researchers to exchange insights and promote oral health care models that support healthy aging.