Cariology Conference

Cariology of Older Adults: What We Know and What Are the Challenges?

Date & Location

April 17, 2026
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

University Advancement
300 East River Road
Rochester, New York 14627

Learning Objectives

• Describe the unique challenges of diagnosing, preventing, and managing dental caries in older adults, including the influence of systemic health, polypharmacy, and functional status.
• Explain how geriatric principles and age-friendly care models can be integrated into dental practice to improve oral health outcomes and patient experience for aging populations.
• Discuss the role of salivary gland physiology and age-related changes in salivary flow in modifying caries risk and influencing clinical decision-making.
• Analyze the interactions between diet, nutrition, chronic diseases, and oral health in aging individuals, and apply this knowledge to develop holistic, patient-centered prevention plans.

Educational Objectives

• Develop individualized caries management plans that address salivary function, dietary patterns, medication effects, and access-to-care barriers.
• Communicate effectively with older adults, caregivers, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams to promote shared decision-making and coordinated care.
• Implement preventive interventions and minimally invasive strategies suitable for medically complex or frail older adults.

Course Credit

Continuing Dental Education Credits: 5.5

University of Rochester, Eastman Institute for Oral Health is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. 

ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry. 

Concerns or complaints about a CE provider may be directed to the provider or to the Commission for Continuing Education Provider Recognition at ADA.org/CERP.