Anti-hypertension medications: an epidemiological factor in the prevalence of root decay among geriatric patients suffering from hypertension.

Predictions showing age distribution in our population of elderly citizens in our society within the next 30 to 40 years. One of the most destructive oral afflictions of the elderly is root decay. A study was performed to ascertain the prevalence of root caries among inner city geriatric patients taking anti-hypertension medications. One hundred randomly selected patients were studied. Fifty patients taking the anti-hypertension medications for at least two years were compared to a control group of 50 healthy patients of nearly the same age. With oral hygiene factors being equal, the group taking anti-hypertension medications demonstrated a higher prevalence of root decay at the p less than 0.01 level.