[Tasks and problems of geriatric dentistry]

The health and social policy of the German Democratic Republic as well as the programs of numerous medical specialties pay special attention to the problems of citizens advanced in years. But stomatology too must contribute to preserve or restore the well-being of citizens advanced in years. For this reason, a purpose-oriented research must realize the scientific advance which is necessary to preserve the functional performance of the masticatory organ till old age in spite of the incomplete dentitions which prevail at present. In the next few years, research should be focused on the prevention and control of diseases of the mucosa of the denture foundation and on the correction elimination of somatopsychic factors which are detrimental to the functional performance of dentures.