Boomers and Beyond: Dilemmas and Considerations for Treatment Planning

Question 1

gerodontics

Answer 1

branch of dentistry concerned with the MANAGEMENT and TREATMENT of the geriatric patient

Question 2

endodontic considerations for geriatric patient

Answer 2

1. more calcifications
2. smaller canals
3. larger more complex restorations impact access
4. time and physical constraints of patients
5. longer/more appointments due to adjusting to accommodate patient limitations

Question 3

prosthodontic considerations for geriatric patient

Answer 3

1. time and physical constraints of patients
2. functional status of patient (i.e. oral hygiene, ability to remove appliances, medications)
3. tooth loss not related to age but due to longer period of time at risk for disease or accident
4. shortened dental arch (premolars forward)
5. quality of life issues (i.e. social interaction, nutrition/mastication)

Question 4

characteristics of “old teeth”

Answer 4

1. enamel cracks
2. cervical erosion
3. exposed roots
4. stain discolorations
5. smooth facial surface
6. enamel fractures
7. wedge shaped defects along incisal edge

Question 5

restorative considerations for geriatric patient

Answer 5

1. recurrent caries

2. root caries

Question 6

surgery considerations for geriatric patient

Answer 6

1. well planned and managed
2. consult with MD
3. drugs (i.e. interactions and metabolism)
4. implants

Question 7

T/F: implants for geriatric patients are age dependent not medical status dependent

Answer 7

false, medical status dependent NOT age dependent

Question 8

cast metal partials provide support to what?

Answer 8

periodontically involved teeth

Question 9

pros of cast metal partials

Answer 9

1. easy to adjust clasps

2. easy to add teeth esp if you have plated teeth adjacent to spaces

Question 10

cons to cast metal partials

Answer 10

1. can be more difficult to insert and remove
2. may need to recontour teeth for guide planes
3. clasps in anterior can pose an esthetic problem

Question 11

pros of thermoplastic partials (Flexite, IFLEX & Valplast)

Answer 11

1. have gum or tooth colored clasps that are much less visible than metal clasps
2. are thin and flexible, may be easier to wear and harder to break
3. flexibility allows denture to adapt to shape of mouth, making it easier to speak and eat properly, increasing self-confidence

Question 12

what are thermoplastic partials (Flexite, IFLEX & Valplast) made out of?

Answer 12

nylon resin designed to blend in with the patients natural gum color, this means the denture is less visible so better esthetics

Question 13

T/F: the resin material of thermoplastic partials (Flexite, IFLEX & Valplast) used to crease the gums have a lifetime warranty against fractures and breakages

Answer 13

true

Question 14

the resin material of thermoplastic partials (Flexite, IFLEX & Valplast) are stain resistant and are a good choice for anyone who what?

Answer 14

suffers from allergies as it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals commonly found in denture acrylics

Question 15

cons of thermoplastic partials (Flexite, IFLEX & Valplast)

Answer 15

1. difficult to finish, fit and adjust
2. can’t add teeth to partial
3. don’t provide support to periodontically involved teeth

Question 16

1st appointment for geriatric patient

Answer 16

1. diagnostic models
2. shade
3. construct stabilized bite rims
4. impression trays

Question 17

2nd appointment for geriatric patient

Answer 17

1. final impression via either closed or open tray
2. prepare abutments if desired (can also be done by lab)
3. bite at proper vertical
4. lab can cast bar and construct stabilized base

Question 18

3rd appointment for geriatric patient

Answer 18

1. try in bar (cemented or screw retained)
2. try in base and check for fit and retention
3. take final bite registration

Question 19

4th appointment for geriatric patient

Answer 19

deliver denture