The ageing UK population--considerations for the restorative dentist

The scope of gerodontology and more specifically that of restorative dentistry (which in the UK includes the disciplines of endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics and operative dentistry) within gerodontology, is expanding. This is true for several reasons. Firstly, the population, in both the UK and most of the western world is generally living longer. Secondly, more elderly patients are retaining their natural teeth longer into old age--thereby necessitating ongoing restorative dentistry input for their maintenance. In addition, many patients' expectations are increasing with regards to restorative dentistry. Natural teeth that were erstwhile considered as automatic candidates for extraction may now be regarded differently, especially if they are considered a 'strategic' tooth within the arch. The aim of this paper is to give a perspective as to how some of the more common restorative dentistry issues that beset the elderly population are addressed in the UK. This paper will focus on operative dentistry and prosthodontic aspects of restorative dentistry for elderly patients.