Trends in elderly dentition suggest growing dento-legal risk

15 January 2010

An increasing number of elderly patients retaining their teeth poses a growing risk to dentists in providing adequate care.

Studies suggest that 50% of over 65 year olds will retain their natural teeth within the next 20 years – substantially higher than has historically been the case.

MDDUS is warning that this has implications for the dental profession as decay patterns in elderly patients can be distinct from that found in the younger population. In particular MDDUS is advising members to be aware of the increased risk of cervical caries in the elderly dentition and suggests an assessment of increased need for provision of preventive measures for elderly patients.

Claire Renton, MDDUS dental adviser says:

"These measures can be simple things like instruction regarding interdental cleaning, advising on the use of fluoride supplements like mouthwash, or high Fluoride dose tooth paste.

"The problem is that the neck and root of the tooth is at greater risk of decay than the crown of the tooth in the elderly because often the gum has receded and exposed the softer, and more easily decayed, dentine.

"Elderly patients should be encouraged to attend their dentist regularly as cervical decay can be rapidly progressive and lead to greater treatment needs."

MDDUS advises dentists to ensure patients are given adequate preventive care and also to take accurate notes detailing the advice given.

In following this advice, Ms Renton adds: "Patients would be protected from decay and dentists would be protected from allegations of failure to advise!"

Look for more on this topic in the upcoming Spring 2010 issue of MDDUS Summons