Questions and Answers
At what age is a person classified as geriatric?
Geriatrics focuses primarily on the health care of children and adolescents.
False
What is the study of dental problems in aging persons called?
Gerodontology
The ____ population is the most rapidly growing segment of the general population.
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Match the following age classifications with their corresponding age ranges:
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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the oral mucosa in older adults?
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Dental caries tend to increase with age due to factors like reduced saliva production.
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What syndrome is characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth?
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Diminished nerve supply can lead to reduced awareness of oral __________.
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Which of the following describes a common challenge faced in geriatric dental treatment?
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Match the oral conditions to their descriptions:
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In older adults, it is important to use medical terminology to ensure understanding during dental treatment.
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Name one condition that could lead to loss of periodontal attachment.
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Which chronic illness has the highest prevalence among the elderly according to the data?
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Diabetes mellitus is less common than osteoarthritis in the elderly population.
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What percentage of elderly persons are reported to be on polypharmacy?
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Poor oral health is considered a risk factor for __________ health.
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Match the chronic illness with its respective percentage prevalence in the elderly:
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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of elderly patients according to the content?
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Visual impairments affect a significant portion of elderly individuals at 46.1%.
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Name one factor that can be affected by impaired oral health.
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What is a preferred material for Removable Partial Dentures (RPD) unless an addition is planned?
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The decision to replace teeth should focus solely on aesthetic concerns.
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What is the goal of a problem-oriented approach in prosthetic treatment for elderly patients?
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In partially dentate patients, maintaining key teeth can be done through the use of ______.
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Match the restorative challenges with their descriptions:
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Which of the following is not a recommended practice for treating partially dentate patients?
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Plastic restorative materials are preferred in older adults because they can be easily repaired or replaced.
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What should the healthy functioning dentition in a shortened dental arch consist of?
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Which property makes Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) a preferred restorative material?
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Fluoride varnishes are ineffective in maintaining low caries activity.
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What is the recommended approach for a partially dentate patient with poor prognosis?
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Overdentures help preserve _______ bone.
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What should be considered for patients suffering from xerostomia?
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Match the item with its corresponding benefit:
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The transition to a complete immediate denture occurs after ______ months.
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Name a suggested product that can help in maintaining low caries activity.
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Study Notes
Geriatric Prosthodontics
- Aging entails complex biological processes resulting in progressive functional decline due to molecular damage.
- Aging is multidimensional, incorporating physical and psychosocial changes.
Age Classifications
- Pediatric: Birth to <19 years.
- Adult: 19 to <65 years.
- Geriatric: ≥65 years.
- WHO classifications (2019): Children (0-14 years), Youth (15-24 years), Adults (25-64 years), Older persons (65+ years).
Geriatrics and Gerodontics
- Geriatrics focuses on healthcare for elderly individuals, promoting health by preventing and treating diseases.
- Gerodontics addresses dental issues specific to aging populations.
Health Challenges in Geriatric Population
- Aging population experiences high prevalence of chronic illnesses:
- Hypertension (59.1%)
- Diabetes (57.3%)
- Visual impairment (46.1%)
- Cognitive impairments such as dementia (28.5%) and Alzheimer’s (21.4%).
- Chronic diseases and disabilities increase susceptibility to oral health issues, simultaneously affecting general health.
Polypharmacy
- High medication use, with 68-95% of those aged 65+ taking multiple medications.
- In Riyadh, 58.3% of the elderly (aged 61+) are considered to be on polypharmacy.
Oral Health Changes in Elderly
- Oral health impacts overall well-being, affecting diet, nutrition, and social interactions.
- Oral mucosa features:
- Dry, thin surfaces with loss of elasticity.
- Higher risk of infections and delayed wound healing.
- Dentition changes involve:
- Tooth discoloration, loss, and reduced enamel.
- Increased caries susceptibility and pulp calcifications.
- Periodontal issues:
- Gingival recession, loss of attachment, and alveolar bone loss.
- Salivary gland changes:
- Obstructions and bacterial infections.
Challenges in Geriatric Dental Care
- Increased life expectancy leads to higher demand for dental services.
- Importance of a patient-centered, problem-oriented approach to care.
- Aging patients often have heightened awareness and expectations regarding their dental treatments.
General Treatment Considerations
- Preferably adopt simple treatment plans; assess patient comfort and appointment tolerance.
- Communicate clearly and respectfully; avoid jargon and establish good rapport.
- Thorough medical history assessment and identification of oral manifestations.
Treatment Strategies
- Prioritize minimally invasive dentistry and functionally oriented treatment planning.
- Emphasis on preserving key teeth and utilizing overdentures and dental implants.
Restorative Treatments for the Elderly
- Erosion, abrasion, and rampant caries are common challenges in restorations.
- Favor plastic restorative materials for ease of repair or replacement.
- Glass Ionomer Cement (GIC) is preferred for root caries due to its adhesive properties and fluoride release.
Managing Dentition Status
- For partially dentate patients, consider:
- Removable Partial Dentures (RPD) with hygienic design.
- Preserving anterior teeth in shortened dental arch strategies.
- Minimally invasive approaches focusing on caries prevention.
- Transition strategies for patients with poor prognosis:
- Begin with transitional partial dentures and evolve to complete dentures.
- Maintain key teeth through overdentures to support dentures and preserve bone.
Complete Edentulous Treatment
- Complete dentures should ensure adequate support, balance, and articulation.
- Address xerostomia with artificial saliva and consider denture care enhancements.
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Description
This quiz explores the principles of prosthodontic care tailored for elderly patients. It addresses biological aging, functional decline, and the complexities inherent in managing dental health among older populations. Test your knowledge on geriatric prosthodontics and its importance in dental care.
