MDNews - Minnesota

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ +++ + +++ + ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ PROSTHODONTIC INSIGHTS G ERIATRIC PATIENTS — those 85 years of age and older — are the fastest growing segment of the patient population. The geriatric medi- cine specialist's focus is on health promotion, disease prevention and treatment of diseases and dis- abilities, as geriatric patients often present with multiple chronic illnesses of varying complexity. In many situations, there are multiple comorbidities involved, such as cardiovascular diseases, urinary incontinence, neurological diseases, bone and joint issues, cognitive conditions and vision and/or hearing loss. Many medications prescribed to treat these disorders have side effects that can adversely affect the health of the oral cavity by causing drug-induced xerostomia. Reduced salivary flow is associated with increased teeth caries, periodontal disease, inflammation of the oral mucosa and increased propensity for candida infection. If the geriatric patient is on numerous medications for multiple conditions and all medications cause xerostomia, the patient is at risk for profound xerostomia. In addition to the increased disease burden of losing teeth due to caries and periodontal disease, the patient may also have difficulty swallowing and maintaining adequate nutrition. The prosthodontist can be a valuable part of the treatment team, helping geriatric patients maintain oral health and treating dental caries to preserve teeth for as long as possible. Prosthodontists also replace missing teeth, and if teeth are not salvageable, the prosthodontist can fabricate a well-fitted set of dentures. V i s i t C i t y We s t P r o s t h o d o n t i c s o n l i n e a t citywestpros.com. ■ in Treating the Geriatric Patient By Donna Hecker, DDS, MS The Role of the Prosthodontist Gross caries, fractured teeth and partial edentulism in an elderly stroke patient Edentulous smile in an elderly stroke patient Smile and function restored with properly fitting dentures PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CITY WEST PROSTHODONTICS M D N E W S . CO M ■ MD NEWS Minnesota | 1 7

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