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Periodontal treatment for elderly patients
1Department of Periodontics, Indiana University School of Dentistry, USA.
Journal of the Massachusetts Dental Society
|May 16, 2000
Summary
As the older American population grows, dental professionals must adapt periodontal therapy. Understanding common conditions and medications is key to improving oral health and quality of life for seniors.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Periodontology
- Dental Public Health
Background:
- The population of older Americans is rapidly expanding.
- This demographic shift presents unique challenges for healthcare providers, including general practitioners and periodontists.
- Older adults frequently have multiple concurrent medical conditions impacting dental care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common health conditions in older patients.
- To suggest modifications in periodontal therapy for this population.
- To emphasize the importance of functional assessments in geriatric dental care.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of common conditions in older adults.
- Analysis of how medical conditions and medications affect periodontal treatment.
- Discussion of functional assessment techniques for elderly patients.
Main Results:
- Identification of prevalent chronic diseases and their impact on periodontal health.
- Recommendations for adapting standard periodontal treatments.
- Highlighting the necessity for therapists to be knowledgeable about geriatric pharmacology.
Conclusions:
- Periodontal care for older adults requires specialized knowledge of their medical conditions and medications.
- Functional assessments are crucial for tailoring therapy to enhance patients' quality of life.
- Adapting treatment strategies ensures optimal periodontal care for the growing geriatric population.