of secondary dentine. Gradually however, the tubules obturate and lead to dentinal sclerosis. The innermost layer containing the nerves, pulp, develops more fibres and less cells leading to shrinkage. A reduced blood supply means that an elderly patient’s pulp does not have the same capacity to heal itself compared with younger patients. Calcification of the pulp with the root canals narrowing increases in frequency with the geriatric population too. This can often lead to decreased sensitivity to stimuli, e.g. cold or sweet foods. Cementum on the tooth roots is continually produced; however with age the rate this happens slows down, leaving the geriatric patient at a higher risk for developing root caries. Ageing and Periodontal Disease The instance of periodontal disease increases with age, however it is not due to the nature of the condition, but rather indicates the patient’s cumulative oral history. Due to the aging process and certain health conditions of the geriatric population; they can be more susceptible to pathogenic anaerobic bacteria infecting the periodontium and initiating inflammation. Age increases the risk of periodontal disease but does not cause it. Most of the geriatric community have moderate levels of attachment loss, with less having advanced stages of the disease. Active periodontitis is a risk factor for certain systemic diseases as well, including cardiovascular disease, stroke and aspiration pneumonia. Dental care in residential aged care facilitates Elderly people in residential care facilities are considered to have some of the poorest oral health in Australia, and are some of our most vulnerable and disadvantaged population groups. Elderly people who are functionally dependant and residing in residential care facilities, are particularly vulnerable to oral health issues such as periodontal disease, dental caries, particularly root caries and other oral health issues. Their dependence on staff to assist them with daily oral hygiene care often results in minimal hygiene being provided. Oral health requirements are often unfortunately overshadowed by more important things such as feeding, toileting and bathing. Other barriers that care staff in residential aged care facilities experience to providing oral care included lack of oral health policies, and ongoing education and training. Historically there has been a reluctance with dental professionals to attend residential aged-care facilities. When combined with the difficulty experienced for residents to access dental care themselves, their options have been limited. Therefore, the need for regular onsite professional dental care is urgently required, to address early detection,