Dreaming of a slow aging in the oral cavity

As South Korea entered a super-aged society in 2025, the growing elderly population has brought increasing attention to the significance of oral aging. Oral aging encompasses far more than simple tooth loss; it involves a complex array of physiological changes, including decreased salivary secretion, atrophy of the oral mucosa, deterioration of periodontal tissues, and decline in masticatory function. These oral changes are closely associated with systemic health outcomes such as nutritional imbalance, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. This article reviews the clinical characteristics of oral diseases commonly encountered in the elderly, with particular emphasis on the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to root caries and cracked teeth. In addition, the principles of periodic recall examination, oral hygiene instruction, and patient counseling are presented from a maintenance therapy perspective. Finally, policy recommendations are proposed to strengthen institutional support for improving oral health in older adults. A thorough understanding of the oral characteristics of elderly patients and the commitment to prevention-centered care by clinicians will serve as the foundation for realizing healthy oral aging of the oral cavity.