Caries and the older patient

<p>Ageing of the population, together with prolonged retention of teeth, has brought new challenges to dentistry. Whereas in the past oral care for the elderly was restricted to provision of dentures, older patients are now presenting with dental caries and failed restorations. These problems may have an impact on their general health and quality of life. Poor oral hygiene, xerostomia and diet are among the risk factors for caries in older patients and need to be addressed in order to achieve control of the disease. Carious lesions can be treated conservatively in many cases or may need surgical management.</p><p>CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Caries is an oral health issue among older patients and can result in tooth loss. Oral health has a great impact on general health and quality of life of elderly people.</p>