More elderly people are retaining their natural teeth – but it’s causing problems for dentists | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleElla PickoverWednesday 04 March 2026 23:04 GMTDentist claims she can tell if you are right or left-handed just by looking in your mouthA new report by the Association of Dental Groups (ADG) indicates a significant shift in the dental health of older people, with a dramatic decrease in those aged 75 and above not having natural teeth compared to the 1970s.This trend means dentists are now facing more complex restorative work for elderly patients, as natural teeth are retained longer, requiring intricate treatments rather than full dentures.The ADG warns of a potential 'massive increase' in demand from 'tomorrow's elderly' – individuals currently in their 30s, 40s, and 50s – who have undergone cosmetic dental surgery and implants that require lifelong maintenance and can be affected by common medications.The report predicts a 'dentistry silver tsunami' due to the growing complexity of cases and a significant existing gap in the dental workforce, calling for urgent action to ensure patient access to care.Health minister Stephen Kinnock is expected to outline government plans to rebuild NHS dentistry, including a requirement for newly qualified dentists to practise in the NHS to provide more accessible and quality care.In fullDentists warn of surge in demand as UK’s elderly retain more teethThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in