In short
- 01What it coversGeriatric dentistry adapts treatment for the dental problems common in older adults, from tooth decay to poorly fitting dentures.
- 02Dry mouth riskDry mouth is common in older age and raises the risk of tooth decay, so staying hydrated matters.
- 03Denture careDentures should be removed after meals, rinsed, and cleaned with denture-specific products rather than ordinary toothpaste.
Geriatric dentistry, also called senior dental care, focuses on the oral and dental problems that come with age. Tooth decay and gum disease can lead to infections that affect an older patient’s general health, so dentists adapt their approach to the conditions that come with ageing. Even when an older patient comes in for an unrelated reason, the dentist should check for:
- Pain
- Tooth decay
- Bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Mucosal lesions or precancerous lesions
- Infection
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Poorly fitting prostheses
- Jaw joint problems
How does an ageing mouth change?
Teeth and the tissues around them change with age. Gums can recede, the jawbone can lose density, and the teeth themselves show wear. Dentists take these changes into account when planning treatment, and early diagnosis makes them easier to manage.
How is a geriatric dental examination done?
A geriatric dental exam takes the specific needs of older patients into account, including the time it takes to understand their concerns. It is based on an intraoral examination, X-rays, and a detailed medical history.
Treatment options
Geriatric dentistry treats the same problems as general dentistry: tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss, but with treatment plans adapted to the patient. Prosthetic work, dental implants and restorative treatment are used where appropriate, aimed at reducing discomfort and improving quality of life. Gum health and oral hygiene matter as much at this stage of life as at any other.
Everyday oral care for older patients
Oral hygiene needs more attention in older age. Patients should be encouraged to brush and floss as much as their physical condition allows, and the dentist should teach the correct technique to the patient, or their carer, and follow up with regular checks.
Diet matters too. Soft, easy-to-chew foods are gentler on the teeth, and foods containing calcium and vitamin D support tooth and jaw health. Dry mouth is common in older age, often caused by medication or systemic disease, and it raises the risk of tooth decay. Drinking plenty of water helps, and artificial saliva products can be used when needed.
Managing pain and discomfort
Pain and discomfort can get in the way of oral health, so the dentist prescribes appropriate treatment to keep the patient comfortable and able to continue treatment without interruption. Managing pain well is part of maintaining an older patient’s general health and quality of life.
Caring for dentures
Denture wearers should remove and rinse their denture after each meal, using water rather than harsh products that could damage it. Special cleaning tablets or liquids, used alongside a soft denture brush, help keep the denture hygienic and free of odour.
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results can vary from person to person.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the screening tests performed in the geriatrics department?
The checks carried out in geriatric dentistry are aimed at diagnosing problems early, before they become more serious.
Does the use of dental prostheses cause pain in geriatric patients?
Wearing a denture can cause some mild discomfort until you get used to it, but this is usually temporary. Ongoing pain is not normal and usually means the denture needs adjusting.
How can geriatric dentists help denture wearers?
Geriatric dentists support denture wearers with care instructions and regular check-ups to help maintain their oral health.
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