By 2060, according to the US Census, the number of US adults aged 65 years or older is expected to reach 98 million, 24% of the overall population. Older Americans with the most inadequate oral health tend to be those who are economically disadvantaged, lack insurance, and are members of racial and ethnic minorities. Being disabled, homebound, or seniors that live in nursing homes. Studies have shown 18% of seniors 65 and older have untreated decay. Some people wonder why their suddenly getting cavities when you haven't had them in years. As we get older, we enter the second round of cavity prone years. One common cause of cavities in older adults is dry mouth. Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. However, it is a side-effect of more than 500 medications, including those for allergies or asthma, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, pain, anxiety or depression, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. A few of the culprits behind adult cavities are receding gums and failed fillings. For older adults in nursing homes, the main culprit is access to care.

Upon completion of this CE webinar, participants will be able to:
• Recognize the cause of decay in older adults in nursing homes
• Identify and recommend solutions for the prevention and treatment of caries in older adults in nursing homes.
• Discuss access to oral care for older adults in nursing homes
• Describe products that can impact and improve the overall health of the aging mouth   ( disclaimer , AGD PACE Statement )