Looking after some dear old friends...

Teeth, we all know, should not be neglected. Neither should a certain group of patients - the elderly.

After all, people are living longer and many are keen to explore today's wide variety of cosmetic treatments as well as retaining standard check-up care.

Youth no longer has the monopoly when it comes to the desire for that perfect white smile!

The elderly, of course, are rarely at the forefront of chic imagery campaigns, advertising agencies naturally gravitate towards the "disposable income" end of the market. Grandma and Grandpa have not, however, been forgotten.

In fact, the British Dental Association recently held an Older People With Teeth! Conference.
A subsequent report concluded that action was needed to keep up with the needs of a growing aged population. Suggestions included free oral healthcare assessments at 60 and free dental examinations for the over 65's.

It also recommended that dental practices should be formally linked to care homes to ensure continued treatment. Hygienists also have a major role to play in this area. Dr John Renshaw, chair of the BDA's Executive Board has said: "Older people today are demanding more from dental services than has been the case in the past. By looking ahead to 2020 we have seen that demand will increase significantly. We must take action now."

Attitudes among the elderly are also changing. Getting older is no longer a question of getting by. For women, particularly, facelifts and bone reconstructions are as common as a visit to the optician. Looking younger and better is now part of a new culture, and part of that philosophy is now being directed towards the dental surgery. The mouth is also getting an update.

The future for today's generation of "mature people" is looking brighter and whiter. So too are they!