Dental professionals are learning that dealing with the elderly requires sensitivity to the medical, psychological and financial states of this population. Barriers to access can be as basic as transportation to the office to low motivation to maintain regular oral care. Significant new challenges in clinical care include safe and effective treatment for dental patients with dementia, stroke, ambulatory limits and other multiple medical conditions.
Beginning in 2002 The Village has partnered with
Marquette University School of Dentistry to orientate, educate and train eighty students per year in geriatric dental care. In addition to formal training, students and faculty provide oral health screenings, advice and products.