This lecture session discussed the use of digital dentistry for geriatric patients. Prof. Dr. drg. Dewi Agustina, M.DSc explained that the elderly population is rapidly increasing worldwide, with Indonesia having become an aging population structure since 2021. She highlighted the characteristics of elderly patients, including degenerative processes, increased vulnerability to disease, and geriatric syndromes. Prof. Dewi emphasized that oral health is an integral part of overall health and a key determinant of the quality of life of the elderly.
Digital dentistry offers various benefits for the elderly population, including more precise, efficient, and comfortable care. This technology enables more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatments, and longer-lasting results, reducing dental visits and improving the quality of life of older adults.
Benefits of Digital Dentistry for the Elderly
More Accurate Diagnosis: Intraoral scanners and CAD/CAM software allow dentists to obtain detailed 3D images of patients’ teeth and oral tissues, aiding in earlier and more accurate detection of dental problems.
More Efficient Treatment: CAD/CAM technology allows for faster fabrication of dental restorations (such as crowns, bridges, or implants) compared to traditional methods, reducing treatment time and the number of dental visits.
Better Comfort: Digital scanning eliminates the need for traditional dental impressions, which are often uncomfortable for older patients. Digitally fabricated restorations are also more precise and comfortable to use.
Longer-Lasting Results: The use of biocompatible materials and precision manufacturing in CAD/CAM technology produces more durable restorations and reduces the risk of future problems.
Improved Quality of Life: With better dental care, older adults can enjoy food more comfortably, speak more clearly, and boost their self-confidence.
Reduced Risk of Degenerative Diseases: Good oral health is linked to a reduced risk of degenerative diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, which are common among the elderly population.
Examples of Application
Dental Restorations: CAD/CAM technology enables the fabrication of crowns, bridges, or implants perfectly tailored to replace missing or damaged teeth.
Orthodontic Treatment: Specialized software can be used to plan orthodontic (braces) treatments more accurately and efficiently, even for elderly patients requiring such care.
Periodontal Treatment: Intraoral scanners can assist in diagnosing and treating periodontal (gum) disease, which often occurs in the elderly.
Teledentistry: Teledentistry applications enable remote consultations with dentists, making access to care easier for elderly patients with mobility limitations.
Challenges
Infrastructure: Unequal internet access across regions can hinder the implementation of teledentistry.
Hardware and Software Limitations: Some dental clinics may not yet have the necessary hardware and software for digital dentistry.
Training and Skills: Dentists and medical staff need adequate training in the use of digital technology.
Cost: The cost of digital dental equipment and treatment may still be a barrier for some elderly patients.
Digital dentistry offers great potential in improving oral health and quality of life for the elderly. By addressing existing challenges, this technology can provide effective and efficient solutions in meeting the dental care needs of the elderly population. Common oral health problems in older adults include tooth loss, dental caries, periodontal disease, and xerostomia. Prof. Dewi emphasized the importance of proper oral care in reducing premature mortality and improving overall health outcomes for elderly patients.
Author: Andri Wicaksono | Photo: Doc. Dental Summer Course Committee
