The need for geriatric dental education.

The poor oral health status of the elderly and the structural and attitudinal barriers that prevent dental care utilization by them, present a serious challenge for the elderly as well as for the dental profession. This challenge becomes even greater when the importance of good oral health status to the quality of life is considered. The aged person's feeling of individual well-being and favorable self-image, ability to communicate and socialize, ability to maintain adequate nutrition, and to taste and enjoy foods can be dependent upon good oral health status and hygiene. Older patients benefit physically and psychologically from more efficient dental treatment and more compassionate care given by people who understand the problems they face. In short, a better understanding of the principles of geriatric care by health professionals and staff will save both public money and private anguish. Tomorrow's elderly are expected to demand more attention and intervention to meet their changing needs. There is no reason to believe that the extension of education and training cannot begin to achieve this goal.