Oral diseases and their relationship with nutrition in older adults

Abstract

Population aging is one of the most relevant demographic phenomena of the 21st century. The relationship between oral health and overall health is complex and multifaceted, especially among older adults. Some general health conditions that are prevalent in this age group may act as predisposing factors for oral health deterioration, such as diabetes, which can lead to xerostomia or reduced salivary flow. Moreover, due to the aging process, this population is more lilkely to experience nutritional problems, caused by decreased regulation of food intake, assimilation, and metabolism, as well as by physical, psychological, and social changes, and the coexistence of age-related diseases. A literature search was conducted in scientific databases such as PubMed, LILACS, and the Virtual Health Library The review included open access articles published in Spanish and English, between August 2019 and August 2024. This review aimed to describe the main oral diseases in older adults and how they influencenutritional status. Preventing and treating oral diseases is essential to preservingoral health and proper nutrition in this population.