What can be a geriatric-related complication in dentistry?

Reduced salivary flow is a common geriatric-related complication in dentistry. This condition, known as xerostomia, is often observed in older adults due to various factors, including medication side effects, age-related changes in the salivary glands, and certain health conditions like diabetes or autoimmune disorders. Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health; it aids in the digestion of food, helps in swallowing, acts as a natural cleanser for the mouth, and provides protective effects against dental caries and periodontal disease. Therefore, when salivary flow is reduced, older adults are at an increased risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

While increased risk of infection, longer recovery times, and denture stomatitis are also relevant in the context of geriatric dentistry, they are not as directly associated with the aging process itself as reduced salivary flow. Increased infections can occur due to various reasons, including underlying health conditions or weakened immune responses, but they are not as universally prevalent across the geriatric population specifically related to age. Higher recovery times can be influenced by multiple factors, including overall health and specific interventions, and are not limited to geriatric patients. Denture stomatitis, although a concern