Abstract
This study evaluated the association of functional dentition with 12-month changes in body measurements and nutrient intake among older adults. Data from 651 community dwellers, aged 60 years and over, in Phetchaburi, Thailand, were analysed (retention rate: 83%). Data were collected via interviews (including a semi-structured food frequency questionnaire), anthropometric measurements and dental examinations. Associations were tested in linear regression models adjusted for baseline sociodemographic factors, behaviours, chronic conditions and medications. On average, participants experienced a significant increase in body mass index (BMI) and significant decreases in waist circumference (WC) and triceps skinfold thickness (TSF). A negative, albeit not significant, association between functional dentition and change in BMI was observed after adjusting for confounders. Whilst participants who had non-functional dentition without dentures experienced increases in BMI (predicted mean change: 0.25; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.09, 0.41), those who had non-functional dentition with dentures (0.21; 95%CI: −0.08, 0.50) and functional dentition (−0.07; 95%CI: −0.42, 0.28) remained stable. No similar trends were noted for WC or TSF. Functional dentition was not associated with changes in nutrient intake either. The findings provide little evidence on the association of functional dentition with short-term changes in nutrient intake or nutritional status.
Highlights
Tooth loss is a major oral health problem among older adults globally [1]
Evidence from systematic reviews of observational studies suggests that having a full dentition is associated with better diet and nutritional status [4,5]
Participants lost to follow-up were more likely to be men, from rural areas, smokers and non-diabetic than those retained in the sample
Summary
Tooth loss is a major oral health problem among older adults globally [1]. It is the complex result of oral diseases (such as dental caries and periodontal disease), access to dental care services and the individuals’ and dentists’ treatment preferences [2]. Evidence from systematic reviews of observational (mostly cross-sectional) studies suggests that having a full dentition is associated with better diet and nutritional status [4,5]. A recent systematic review of longitudinal studies reported inconclusive findings [6]. Kiesswetter, et al [14] used two-wave panel data over a 10-year period and found no association between self-reported edentulism and body weight. Logan, et al [15] reported that men with 21 or more teeth had higher intake of fruits, vegetables and nuts (measured once in the future only, not as change from baseline) than those with fewer than 21 teeth and dentures 13 years later
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