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Published on: March 31, 2021
Approaches to caries prevention and therapy in the elderly
1School of Dental Sciences, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4BW, England, UK. angus.walls@newcastle.ac.uk
Advances in Dental Research
|August 18, 2012
Summary
Aging populations face increased dental caries risk due to oral changes and dry mouth. Aggressive preventive strategies, including fluoride and chlorhexidine, are crucial for managing caries in vulnerable older adults.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Dentistry
- Oral Health
- Caries Research
Background:
- Global population aging leads to more older adults retaining natural teeth.
- Aging-related oral changes (architecture, muscle weakness) and dry mouth increase difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene.
- Root dentin exposure and higher pH increase demineralization risk, alongside enamel caries susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore evidence-based preventive strategies for managing dental caries in aging populations.
- To address the unique challenges of caries development in older adults.
- To review interventions for limiting caries damage in vulnerable elderly individuals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preventive strategies for dental caries in older adults.
- Analysis of evidence supporting various anti-caries agents.
- Examination of factors contributing to increased caries risk in the elderly.
Main Results:
- Caries affects both tooth crowns and exposed roots in older adults.
- Multiple factors, including medication-induced dry mouth and reduced hygiene, elevate caries risk.
- Preventive strategies must be multifaceted to combat disease in this demographic.
Conclusions:
- Aggressive, multi-pronged preventive approaches are essential for controlling dental caries in aging populations.
- Fluorides, chlorhexidine, and calcium phosphate supplementation show promise in caries prevention.
- Targeted interventions are needed to mitigate caries risk in vulnerable older adults.
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