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Author Spotlight: Oral Candida Diagnosis to Advance Clinical Treatment Regimen for pSS Patients
Published on: March 1, 2024
Systemic diseases and oral health
Mary Tavares1, Kari A Lindefjeld Calabi2, Laura San Martin3
1Dental Public Health, Oral Health Policy and Epidemiology, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, 188 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Applied Oral Sciences, The Forsyth Institute, 245 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA.
The aging US population requires specialized dental care due to chronic conditions. Understanding the link between oral health and systemic diseases is crucial for effective treatment in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Dental Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- The US is experiencing a demographic shift with a rapidly growing geriatric population.
- Increased longevity means more older adults living with multiple chronic conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the need for specialized dental care for the elderly.
- To emphasize the complex interactions between oral diseases and systemic chronic conditions in older adults.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of current demographic trends and medical literature.
- Analysis of the associations between oral health and common chronic diseases in the elderly.
Main Results:
- Older adults frequently have chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.
- Oral diseases are strongly linked to systemic diseases, potentially complicating treatment.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of chronic conditions in older adults requires addressing their specific oral health needs.
- Improved understanding of oral-systemic disease links is essential for geriatric patient care.
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