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3/22/2018 |
Insights |
Considerations For The Management Of Geriatric Patients |
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Considerations For The Management Of Geriatric Patients by Tanya L. Smith, RDH, BS The United States has a growing demographic of older adults, those 65 years of age and older, who are increasingly becoming a large part of dental practices. Dental professionals can play an integral part in helping this population to overcome physical, cognitive, and environmental changes; including challenges in relation to their oral health that they may face with aging. Dental hygienists hold a unique position with the ability to build relationships with patients, evaluate health history and daily routines, and provide patient specific interventions to help maintain optimal oral health. The Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related statistics has projected that by 2030 adults ages 65 and older will account for almost 20% of the total U.S. population. Dental professionals should be prepared to address the age-specific needs these patients will present within the dental setting. Periodontitis, root caries, and xerostomia are among the most prevalent and concerning oral conditions for older adults. Beginning each visit with a full review of medical history is a wonderful place to start learning what health issues may have adverse effects on the patient’s oral health or ability to maintain it. The most common ailments people ages 65+ present with are hypertension, arthritis, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, COPD, depression, and dementia1. Many of the medications used to treat these diseases may cause medication-induced xerostomia, more commonly known as dry mouth. A 2011-2012 NHANES assessment found that 39% of this population take five or more medications daily, compounding the severity of the oral manifestations brought on by xerostomia. For those aged 65 and older 30% were found to suffer from xerostomia, increasing to 40% by age 80. Read full article on Today's RDH.
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