Dentistry for an ageing population: responsibilities and future trends

The previous articles in this series have reviewed the particular problems characteristic of the ageing dentition. The increase in the elderly population, together with the undoubted significant reduction in juvenile and adult caries, has led many to question the continued appropriateness of the current nature and level of dental provision. Some authorities have suggested that the needs of the increasing number of elderly patients will still ensure full dental employment, albeit with an emphasis on different forms of treatment. In this concluding article of the series Aubrey Sheiham gives his view.