Ageing is accompanied by a less efficient immune response, resulting in higher incidence of infections and diseases and enhanced levels of proinflammatory cytokines. In general, the microbial load increases with age together with a different composition of microbiota dependent on cognitive, systemic and oral health. This may lead to a dysbiosis with a predominance of pathobionts as Candida albicans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis. C. albicans correlates with the presence of dentures. P. gingivalis is widely discussed to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease. It is emphasized that microbiota composition and immune response is directed besides genetic factors by nutrition, lifestyle. It can be suggested that also in elderly therapy of oral diseases might have a positive effect on microbiota, interaction with the host and well-being.

The goals of investigating oral microbiota and host response in the elderly include:

1. Gaining more knowledge on molecular basis of immune response against oral microorganisms
2. Increasing data on microbiota in elderly
3. Addressing the immune response against oral microorganisms in the context of systemic diseases and dementia
4. Addressing life-style factors (e.g. living in nurseries, exercises, nutrition) and their influence on oral microbiota and oral health
5. Therapeutic and preventive options targeting microbial dysbiosis and improving oral health
6. Effects of improving oral microbiota, immune response on systemic diseases
7. Therapy of periodontal disease in the elderly

Studies reporting in vitro, animal research on immune cells, oral microorganisms in the context of ageing and diseases most present in elderly are of interest to this Research Topic. Further, clinical research including options in prevention and therapy of oral diseases are welcome. Original research papers, reviews, clinical trials as well as case reports are invited.

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Frontiers in Oral Health

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