Restorative Dentistry in Geriatric Patients: A Literature Review.

Geriatric dentistry is the delivery of dental care to older adults involving diagnosis, prevention, management and treatment of problems associated with age related diseases. The mouth is referred to as a mirror of overall health, reinforcing that oral health is an integral part of general health. There is evidence that oral diseases impact cardiovascular, endocrine and pulmonary health particularly in the elderly, which will certainly provide additional stimuli for the elderly to seek dental care. Improving the quality of life at old age will demand tooth retention and consequently the need for restorative care. Retaining teeth disease free and maintaining them amidst multitude of risk factors associated with old age, is a multifaceted challenge. . The future implications of Geriatric dental care are of considerable importance. Commitment by dentists to meet the oral health needs of this geriatric population is key to the improvement and change in the current status of this population. This review article discusses various dental diseases seen in geriatric patients and their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]