The NHS Dentistry faces further problems as it has emerged that more and more senior citizens are able to retain their own teeth and do not need the support of dentures, according to a study by the British Society of Gerodontology.
The study says that as older people retain their own teeth, dentists have to do more restorative work like crowns, fillings and periodontal procedures like cleaning and curettage. Additionally, they might also require minor surgeries to keep their teeth healthy. This scenario is bound to put a lot of pressure on the NHS, which is already facing a severe shortage of dentists, who are increasingly turning to private practice claiming that the government funds are not enough to meet their daily needs.The British Society of Gerodontology estimates that by 2025 almost 80 percent of the people over 65 will have retained their natural teeth. This is in contrast to `968 when 80 percent of the people in the age group 65-74 had no teeth and depended on dentures. This means that many pensioners with limited incomes will opt for complex dental procedures that will put added pressure on the exchequer.
The society's report recommends that older individuals should consult their dentist in detail so that a long-term plan for dental care including prevention can be evolved. This will be mutually beneficial and prevent them from seeking unnecessary treatment. The report also said that more specialist dentists for older people were needed to be recruited and that older individuals should look out for their oral health since it can quickly turn disastrous for them
