Advancements in medicine and technology mean that people are living longer. As the elderly population grows, so does the need for skilled geriatric dentists. At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud understands the importance of caring for her senior patients. She and her skilled team provide comprehensive, gentle, and compassionate geriatric dentistry. Read on to learn more about dental care into the golden years.
What is geriatric dentistry?
As we get older, we tend to develop age-related dental problems and diseases that require careful treatment. However, administering treatment to the elderly can be complicated by medication sensitivities and cognitive or physical impairments. A geriatric dentist is highly qualified and bears these factors in mind when diagnosing, treating, preventing, and managing dental problems.
Age-related Oral Health Conditions
Even with good oral hygiene, it is common to develop oral health problems as we age. A geriatric dentist has the expertise to diagnose and treat common age-related oral health issues, such as:
- Cavities. As we get older, we do not produce as much saliva. Without sufficient saliva, elderly patients are more prone to dental decay. Geriatric dentists not only fill cavities, but also they address ways to increase saliva production and restore tooth enamel.
- Tooth loss. Approximately 20% of adults over the age of 65 have lost all of their teeth. A geriatric dentist can fit senior patients with dentures or dental implants which restore their quality of life.
- Oral cancer. Cancers of the mouth and pharynx are most commonly found in the aging population. Dentists working with the elderly are proficient at detecting oral cavity cancers early, which is key to a positive prognosis.
- Gum disease. As we age, we can develop chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Oftentimes, these chronic conditions can cause or worsen gum disease. A geriatric dentist is specially trained to treat and manage gum disease in the older population.
Medication Sensitivity and Drug Interactions
Older patients tend to become more sensitive to dental medications, such as analgesics and local anesthetics. A geriatric dentist takes special precautions when using these medications on the senior population. Additionally, it is likely that older patients are taking several prescription or over-the-counter medications, which may lead to dangerous reactions while undergoing dental procedures. For this reason, geriatric dentists follow unique safety protocols to avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions.
Compassionate Care
Understanding their patient’s physical and cognitive limitations is what makes geriatric dentists so unique. They understand the importance of:
- Clear communication. A geriatric dentist will calmly and precisely explain the procedure to the patient and the patient’s caregiver.
- A relaxing atmosphere. Geriatric dentists take special care to limit noises and distractions during treatment.
- Gentle care. A geriatric dentist prioritizes their patients’ comfort. For some patients with cognitive or physical limitations, a dental exam or procedure can be very taxing. A geriatric dentist understands when the patient needs a break or needs to reschedule an appointment to finish the procedure.
Geriatric Dentistry in Lombard, IL
Whether you’re looking for preventative, restorative, or cosmetic dentistry, Dental Care of Lombard is ready to provide you with first-rate geriatric oral healthcare. Call 630-629-5700 or contact us online to learn more about our geriatric dental services or to schedule an appointment.
