TRENDS IN ORAL HEALTH OF THE ELDERLY: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

ABSTRACT The proportion of older people continues to grow worldwide, especially in developing countries. Poor oral health among older people has been seen in a high level of tooth loss, dental caries experience, high prevalence rates of periodontal disease, xerostomia, and oral precancer/cancer. Although all countries face the problem of an aging population, there are differences due to factors such as: health insurance, economic development, social and cultural characteristics. The purpose of this review study is to report disparities in countries in different geographical region. On the other hand, the lack of national epidemiological data on the oral status of this population requires the implementation of epidemiological programmes and strategies towards improved oral health of older people.

Keywords

• oral health
• older population
• epidemiological studies