The COVID era has passed, but it has left the learning lessons for the medical and dental fraternity.

The American Dental Association (ADA) provides guidelines for geriatric dental care, emphasizing communication strategies, need for daily oral hygiene, and the importance of routine and emergency dental care. They also address the impact of systemic conditions like diabetes and the use of medications.²⁶

Key Aspects of Geriatric Dental Care According to the ADA:

• Communication: When interacting with older adults, especially those with cognitive limitations or dementia, dentists should use clear and simple language. Use of nonverbal cues like smiling while establishing eye contact can help build rapport.

• Daily Oral Hygiene: Older adults can maintain their oral health either by themselves or by seeking assistance from caregivers. The use of electric brushes, proper labeling of dentures and partials with the patient's name is highly recommended.

• Routine Dental Care: ADA recommends regular dental examinations, and prompt access to emergency care for issues like acute pain or broken teeth.

• Impact of Systemic Conditions and medications: Dentists need to be aware of the effect of systemic conditions like diabetes, hypertension on oral health. Dentists should also be aware of the effect of prolonged medications on the overall health and dental health of older adults. For instance, Anticoagulant therapy can increase the risk of bleeding during dental procedures. Dentists should consult with the patient's physician and monitor INR levels before invasive treatments. The American Geriatric Society (AGS) developed Beers Criteria, which aims to improve medication safety in older adults. By considering the Beers Criteria, dental professionals can help minimize the risk of medication reactions and promote safe, effective care for older adults.

• Functional Assessment: A functional assessment, rather than just a chronological age, is important for determining how best to provide care for older adults. This assessment considers their ability to travel to appointments, their self-care capabilities, and other factors that might affect their access to and ability to receive dental treatment.

• Access to Care: Barriers to accessing dental care, such as mobility limitations or lack of transportation, should be addressed. Strategies like tele dentistry or home visits may be necessary to ensure that older adults receive the care they need.