ECG - European College of Gerodontology

Background of the European College of Gerodontology

The European College of Gerodontology was founded in 1990 to provide a European forum for contact between all those sharing an interest in Gerodontology and to establish a European body to which questions concerning Gerodontology can be referred. Subsequent meetings have leaded the Society to different countries all over Europe and Israel.

The most striking development of demographic data on the age structure of the population indicates a further increase in the number of elderly patients particularly over the age of 75 years. Dental treatment therefore has to meet the requirements of an aged oro-facial system.

All meetings of the European College of Gerodontology have not only covered the «hard core science» but also presented a wide range of clinical aspects concerning the dental treatment of the older adult. Besides demographic data, ideas and projects on how to improve dental service for the homebound and institutionalised population were introduced. The friendly atmosphere of the meetings has provided a good ground for fruitful discussions and a forum to create an interpersonal network between interested colleagues.

In 1999, the European College of Gerontology held its Annual Meeting for the first time in conjunction with the American Society for Gerodontology (ASGD) in Montreal and thus broadened the «European» perspective in the field. With a growing interest in the field of Gerodontology, there are now members reaching far beyond the European borders.

Membership is available to those who profess an interest in Gerodontology.