Treating an Aging Population: New Funding Will Increase Training in Geriatric Dentistry

Today’s dental students will need to be prepared to treat the most rapidly growing demographic in the United States—older adults. The population over the age of 65 is expanding significantly with 10,000 adults reaching this milestone each day. Despite older adults living longer, many have health issues, including on average two or more chronic health conditions...
While the number of older adults in the U.S. is increasing, the number of health professionals who specialize in their care is decreasing. Oral health providers who care for older adults must not only be open to coordinating with the patient, the patient’s family, caregivers, and other professionals but must have specific training regarding their care. Additionally, inequalities in oral health and the complex relationship between oral health and general health, especially among those with multiple chronic conditions, requires a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and patient-centered approach.
Click Here to Read More
While the number of older adults in the U.S. is increasing, the number of health professionals who specialize in their care is decreasing. Oral health providers who care for older adults must not only be open to coordinating with the patient, the patient’s family, caregivers, and other professionals but must have specific training regarding their care. Additionally, inequalities in oral health and the complex relationship between oral health and general health, especially among those with multiple chronic conditions, requires a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and patient-centered approach.
Click Here to Read More