The neglect of dental health among the elderly persists in a country with approximately 13.8 crore people over the age of 60. Despite increasing life expectancy and health-care needs, the elderly continue to suffer from preventable dental disorders that have a negative influence on their overall health. 
But a new step in Mumbai may change that. 

Synergy Dental Clinic has opened the city's first specialised geriatric dentistry department, which will focus solely on the elderly's specific dental issues. This program, led by experienced dental surgeons Dr. Vipin Mahurkar and Pallavi Mahurkar, extends beyond cosmetic dentistry to provide personalised, age-sensitive care that takes into account both physical and emotional needs. 

"Geriatric dentistry is more than fixing teeth; it's about restoring dignity, function, and confidence in our elders," Dr Pallavi Mahurkar stated. 

According to the Indian Oral Association, more than 60% of senior Indians suffer from untreated oral disorders. These include tooth loss, gum disease, chronic dry mouth, and infections caused by ill-fitting dentures. These issues do not simply affect the mouth; they are closely linked to greater health hazards such as malnutrition, heart disease, and uncontrolled diabetes. 

According to the World Health Organisation, poor oral health in older adults is a significant impediment to good ageing. However, in India, fewer than two out of every 100 elders obtain normal dental care, either due to a lack of awareness, excessive prices, or poor mobility. 

"Many of our elderly patients have stopped smiling, not from sadness, but because of discomfort, embarrassment or pain," said Vipin Mahurkar, MD, PhD. "Our goal is to remove these barriers and give them a reason to smile again." 

This department distinguishes itself not only by the services it provides but also by how they are delivered. Full-mouth therapy improves chewing function and facial structure. Dental implants and implant-supported dentures provide long-term stability, particularly for patients with substantial bone loss. 

Targeted treatments provide relief to seniors suffering from xerostomia (medication-induced dry mouth) and periodontal disease (gum and bone diseases). Sedation dentistry is used to alleviate anxiety and pain in patients with coexisting medical disorders such as hypertension or dementia. 

"This is not just dental care—it's quality-of-life care," said Dr Pallavi Mahurkar. 

The infrastructure is also designed with the elderly in mind. Wheelchair ramps, supporting seats, extended consultation hours, and a relaxing setting guarantee that patients are handled with decency and patience. 

With over 25 years of experience and 20,000+ successful dental implants, the Mahurkars have treated patients from all over the world, including the United Kingdom, UAE, Australia, and the United States. Their current concentration is local. "Our international experience helps us bring global standards home," they told me. "It's time to serve the elders of our city with the same care and attention." 

While India still lacks a national oral health policy for the elderly, this model provides a framework for future care. Experts say initiatives like this can spur legislative changes and raise awareness among families and carers.