Abstract

RIBEIRO, Arthur Filipe Leal; LEAL, Márcia Carréra Campos  and  MARQUES, Ana Paula de Oliveira. Importance of geriatric dentistry to elderly nutrition. RGO, Rev. gaúch. odontol. (Online) [online]. 2012, vol.60, n.2, pp. 241-246. ISSN 1981-8637.

The Brazilian population aging is increasing. Brazil is no longer a country of youths. According to population projections, there will be 32 million elderly in Brazil in 2025, representing 15% of the population. The elderly population has specific dental care requirements. Physiological age-related changes in the oral cavity may cause discomfort and dissatisfaction. Dental surgeons need to be aware of the special needs and particularities of the elderly because good oral health is essential to them. The objective of this review is to search the literature for the main oral cavity diseases that affect the elderly and their impact on nutrition.

Keywords : Dentistry.; Family Health Program.; Health Manpower.; National Health System..