Geriatric Oral Health in the United States: Current Status and Challenges

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gerontology
• Dental Medicine

Background:

• The US population is aging rapidly, increasing the importance of geriatric oral health.
• Older adults face a high burden of oral diseases, often linked to chronic systemic conditions.
• Bidirectional relationships between oral and systemic health are critical in this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on oral disease patterns and trends in US older adults.
• To examine oral healthcare delivery, financing, and inequities for this population.
• To identify future directions for improving geriatric oral health.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review of existing literature.
• It synthesizes evidence on oral disease prevalence and risk factors in older adults.
• The review analyzes healthcare access, policy, and care models.

Main Results:

• Older adults experience significant oral health burdens, often connected to systemic diseases.
• Inequities in dental care access persist, particularly for vulnerable groups.
• Fragmented care and workforce shortages worsen disparities.

Conclusions:

• Policy reforms, integrated care models, and minimally invasive approaches are needed.
• Expanding dental coverage and integrating oral health into medical settings are key.
• Improving geriatric oral health is essential for promoting healthy aging and reducing disparities.