OralLongevity program targets oral health of older Americans

    Sept. 28, 2007
    ADA, GlaxoSmithKline team up to unveil unique initiative.

    SAN FRANCISCO--The potential associations between oral health and overall health, including heart problems, diabetes and pneumonia make it even more important for older adults to maintain good dental health for a lifetime.

    According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more adults are keeping their natural teeth longer well beyond the age of 65. But changes in physical and mental functions could hamper some older adults from taking proper care of their teeth and gums, increasing the risk of dental disease that could complicate other health conditions.

    OralLongevity initiative addresses oral health of older adults
    To help older adults, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, the American Dental Association and the ADA Foundation this week introduced a new, unique initiative called OralLongevity that focuses on improving and maintaining good oral health throughout life.

    OralLongevity will provide older adults, their families, caregivers and dental professionals with education and other free resources to increase the awareness of and need for better oral health.

    "OralLongevity is just the beginning of a major effort to help serve the oral health care needs of this growing and important segment of the U.S. population," said Dr. Kathleen Roth, ADA president. "We are very pleased to be part of this initiative that will benefit so many older adults, their family members and caregivers."

    "The OralLongevity initiative is dedicated to helping oral health care providers and consumers understand the unique problems facing older patients, and to help find solutions that will enhance the oral health care of this fast-growing population group," stated Dr. Ronald Rupp, US professional relations, GSK Consumer Healthcare.

    Web site offers free, downloadable dental tips
    Dental problems can cause pain and suffering as well as difficulty in speaking, chewing and swallowing. Older adults also can suffer from dry mouth, resulting from certain medications used to treat other health conditions.

    Complications associated with medical conditions can impact the ability to maintain good oral health. These conditions are manageable to help improve the quality of life, and the OralLongevity resources provide daily care tips.

    Dr. Richard Price, ADA consumer advisor and retired dentist, advises consumers to speak with a dentist about their dental problems to maintain good oral health.

    "For example, dry mouth and sensitive teeth can be managed and relieved through dental care, behavioral changes and over-the-counter products," he explained.

    "The dentist is a key part of your health care team to advise you on individual oral health needs as you age," Dr. Price emphasized.

    Consumers can download the free OralLongevity DVD and brochure that was unveiled to nearly 50,000 dental professionals attending the ADA's 148th Annual Session by visiting www.orallongevity.ada.org.