Elderly at Greater Risk for Root Caries: A Look at the Multifactorial Risks with Emphasis on Genetics Susceptibility

Abstract

Root caries is one of the most significant dental problems among older adults today. Many studies have demonstrated that older adults are at greater risk for developing root caries. Here we examine what risk factors older adults are prone to and explain how they contribute to higher rates of oral disease, in particular root caries. The elderly are at risk for root caries due to dentures, lack of dexterity, a shift from complex to simple sugars, and poor oral hygiene. Decreased salivary flow and its manifestations with other social/behavioral and medical factors may provide a more comprehensive explanation to a higher frequency of root caries in older adults.

Root caries and it's management- a review

“…Advanced age, physical disabilities, diabetes, autoimmune disorder or radiation therapy, addiction to alcohol and narcotics, limited exposure to fluoridated water. [7] …”

“…These dyes stain the infected dentin and allow the clinician to detect hidden caries. [7] Prevention Applying topical fluoride plays an important role in prevention of root caries because it promoters the remineralisation process and reduces the rate of de mineralization. Numerous methods are there by which fluoride can be supplied.…”

“…[21] Topical fluoride products are available as sodium fluoride rinse, chlorhexidine rinse, and neutral sodium fluoride gel, fluoride chewing gum, and fluoride containing varnishes. [7] Preventive measures include educating patients to avoid high sugar-containing meals, maintaining a proper toothbrushing technique and oral hygiene measures, and having regular dental checkups. The clinician should direct special attention to root caries-prone patients who are wearing dental prostheses.…”

“…Proper management of soft tissues during fixed prosthesis procedures and avoiding placing the margins of a restoration coronal to the surrounding tissue to eliminate plaque accumulation should be followed by the clinician. [7] Treatment Treatment should be done based on the risk factors. Treatment strategies is based on the clinical examination and findings, and are determined by the size, type, extent, and location of the lesion, esthetic requirements as well as the physical and mental condition of the patient.…”

“…[6] Root caries prevention requires proper assessment and observation of the caries risk level for the patient. [7] The key to any successful dental procedure begins with the proper diagnosis. Different alternatives in the management of root caries have been suggested, ranging from conventional removal with rotary instruments and sealing with polymer materials to the use of fluoride toothpastes and other remineralising agents.…”