Description

The term Geriatrics stems from a Greek word "GERON" meaning, old man' and "IATROS" means healer. It is cognate with "JARA" in Sanskrit which also means 'old'. Geriatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that emphasizes dental care for the elderly population and focuses upon patients with chronic physiological, physical and/or psychological changes or morbid conditions/ diseases. It is a specialized multidisciplinary branch of general dentistry designed to provide dental services to elderly patients. A geriatric patient requires health and social support services to attain an optimal level of physical, psychologic and social functioning. The objective of this book is intended to provide detailed review on periodontal diseases seen in older dentate population and their management keeping in mind the special needs of these matured people, so as to render a professional service that is sensitive and caring.