Dental caries in older adults

Abstract

Dental caries is one of the most significant health problems facing older adults. More than half of the elderly who are dentate are affected with either coronal or root caries, and caries is the primary cause of tooth loss in this population. New materials and techniques are emerging to help with geriatric preventive and restorative needs, but ongoing vigilance for caries will be required in this population, which is experiencing increased longevity and tooth retention.