Preventive strategies for the older dental patient.

The purpose of this article is to review preventive strategies with regards to caries, periodontal disease, xerostomia, and oral cancer which may be helpful in treating the older patient. Dramatic demographic changes projected for the older population will have a direct impact on the type and quantity of dental services delivered in the future. It will be advantageous for tomorrow's oral health professional to recognize these changes and to adapt preventive and treatment regimens accordingly.