Physiologic changes in the elderly

A variety of age-related changes in the oral cavity and throughout the aging body can affect dental care and treatment plans. Some of these changes may be unavoidable features of senescence. Others, previously thought to be part of "normal aging," may be modifiable with lifestyle choices or may represent subclinical pathological processes. The ability to compensate for losses in system capacity varies among individuals and may result in functional changes ranging from substantial to unmeasurable. An appreciation of the intricacy of these relationships, and coordinated treatment with the primary care physician, can enhance the dental care of the aged patient.