A clinical approach to dental nutrition among the elderly: a description and discussion of geriatric dental nutrition
Mills, J.; Schuman, N.J.
Journal of the Tennessee Dental Association 79(2): 40-43
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0040-3385 PMID: 10726578 Document Number: 504397
This paper describes the role of nutrition in dentistry, especially as it relates to elderly patients. The nutritional aspects are well understood, but seldom considered in treatment plan formulation and execution, even in an academic health setting. When dental school programs are shown to have clinical relevance to a target population and are faculty supported, they are most successful. This is the case at the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis. The role of the Nutritionist focuses on the periodontal and dental aspects of geriatric patient exposure to disease causing agents in the diet. Nutritionist, dentist, student and patient all participate in a team effort to lower patient exposures and the development of a healthful diet. In this clinical approach to geriatric patient dental nutrition, all parties contribute to the success of the whole.