Use Of Dentures Research Articles

Comparison of the Performance Parameters of BioHPP® and Biocetal® Used in the Production of Prosthetic Restorations in Dentistry—Part I: Mechanical Tests: An In Vitro Study

The aim of these in vitro studies was to determine and compare the mechanical and tribological performance of two commercially available thermoplastic materials, namely BioHPP and Biocetal, used in dental prosthetics. In order to perform the comparative tests of both materials, the dog-bone shaped samples were formed by an injection molding process as in standard polymer materials research, wherein Biocetal samples constituted the research group, and BioHPP samples served as a control group. In the presented studies, their mechanical parameters were reported and analyzed: namely, Shore’s hardness, unnotched impact strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, as well as abrasive wear resistance, obtained within appropriate tribological and mechanical tests. The Shapiro–Wilk test, Q–Q plot analysis, Grubbs test and Student’s t-test (p < 0.05) were used to statistically evaluate the results. The experimental results revealed that BioHPP material is characterized by higher hardness, impact strength, bending strength, and also lower “wet” abrasion wear if compared to Biocetal performance. However, it is subject to higher abrasive wear under “dry” conditions and reveals higher stiffness as well as lower ability to deform, which could affect a patient’s comfort during application. BioHPP, despite being a high-performance polymer material, also has some drawbacks that may affect the poorer long-term use of dentures in people producing less saliva.

The role of biotribocorrosion in the development and progression of clinical manifestations of pseudomembranous candidiasis

Objective. To establish the effect of biotribocorrosion on the development and chronic course of pseudomembranous candidiasis. Materials and methods. The study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedic Dentistry and Gnatology and at the Department of Propaedeutics of Orthopedic Dentistry of the Russian University of Medicine. The study involved 80 patients with pseudomembranous candidiasis using metal dentures and 40 patients with pseudomembranous candidiasis without metal-containing structures, who made up the control group. All participants in the study measured the difference in oral biopotentials, hydrogen index, and salivation rate. Results. In patients of the main group, the content of Fe, Cr, Ni, Ti, Si, K, Na in saliva was significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared with the control group. It was found that dissimilar metal alloys have different effects on the duration of use of dentures. In pseudomembranous candidiasis and the presence of metal-containing structures with signs of biotribocorrosion, a more pronounced electrochemical reaction of stainless steel coated with titanium nitride and uncoated significantly reduces the life of dentures (from 3 to 5 years), compared with CCC metal-ceramic prostheses (from 2 to 10 years) and Ni-Cr-Ni-Cr (from 5 to 8 years old). The greatest pH shift to the acidic side is observed with a combination of stainless steel and Ni-Cr prostheses (pH 5.5–6.0). In pseudomembranous candidiasis, patients using metal dentures have the highest potential differences between M-M. Conclusions. Due to tribocorrosion, corrosion products enter the oral fluid, under their influence, a decrease in pH occurs, provoking a weakening of the protective properties of saliva, a violation of metabolic processes and structural changes in the oral mucosa. Thus, there is a favorable environment for the growth of fungi of the genus Candida, inflammation of the oral mucosa occurs. Microbial flora and fungi that stimulate the development of the inflammatory process are localized in inflammatory areas.

In vitro analysis of composition profiles of resins for 3D printing of dentures.

This study aimed to investigate the resin compounds from CAD-CAM 3D-printed denture resins, focusing on the identification and classification of free monomers and other components. The primary objective was to determine the chemical profile of these 3D-prinding resin materials. Four 3D-printed denture resins, two base materials (1: DentaBASE, Asiga Ltd., Alexandria, NSW, Australia; 2: DENTURETEC, SAREMCO Dental AG), and two tooth-colored materials (1: DentaTOOTH, Asiga Ltd.; 2: CROWNTEC (SAREMCO Dental AG), were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Data analysis was processed including peak alignment and normalization to an ethanol blank, resulting in detailed identification of compounds in the resin. Out of 5,208 detected compounds in the resin, 63 were retained after applying filtering criteria for further analysis, categorized into methyl methacrylate (MMA) and derivatives (31), photo initiators (8), UV stabilizers (1), and other additives (23). Sample 2B exhibited the highest number of resin compounds (62), including the most MMA derivatives and additives. MMA accounted for over 69% in abundance across samples, with unique additives such as ethyl-4-dimethylaminobenzoate and bis(acryloyloxymethyl) tricyclo [5.2.1.02,6] decane (TCD-DI-HEA) identified. Variations in the resin composition distribution and abundance highlighted differences in resin formulations. Within the limits of this in vitro, exploratory study, unpolymerized 3D-printed denture resins were analyzed, and various resin compounds in 3D-printed denture resins, including MMA, photo initiators, UV stabilizers, and additives, were identified along with significant variability between samples. While 3D-printing enhances efficiency and customization, further investigation is needed to better understand and assess the long-term intraoral effects and their effectiveness in complete dentures. This study provides insights into the chemical composition of 3D-printed denture resins, highlighting variability in resin compound profiles. Understanding these materials is essential for ensuring biocompatibility and performance. The findings support the need for further research and standardized testing to guide clinicians in the safe and effective use of 3D-printed dentures.

Denture care attitudes, hygiene levels and oral mucosal lesions in complete denture wearers from a single-institution cross‐sectional study

This study investigated denture care attitudes, dental visit habits, oral mucosal lesions, and hygiene levels in 118 complete denture users treated at a university dentistry faculty. Data on demographics, smoking, denture use duration, dentist visits, and hygiene habits were collected via a questionnaire. A specialist examined mucosal lesions and assessed denture hygiene level using the Budtz-Jorgensen and Bertram method. Categorical data were analyzed with Yates’s correction, Pearson’s chi-square, and Fisher–Freeman–Halton tests; multiple comparisons used the Bonferroni Corrected Z Test. Participants’ mean age was 51.61. Most were non-smokers (55.1%), visited dentists only for complaints (44.9%), cleaned dentures daily (70.3%), and removed them at night (56.8%). Good hygiene was observed in 40.68%. Females cleaned dentures more frequently than males, and 96.3% of those with poor hygiene reported bad denture odor. This study revealed significant deficiencies in denture care habits and inadequate hygiene practices of participants in a university dentistry faculty clinic. Most participants visited dentists only for complaints and had bad habits such as sleeping with their dentures at night and using inappropriate denture hygiene habits. Promoting proper denture hygiene habits and emphasizing the importance of regular dental visits can contribute to better oral health.

Causal effects of circulating inflammatory proteins on oral phenotypes: Deciphering immune-mediated profiles in the host-oral axis

BackgroundOral manifestations function as precursors to potential systemic pathologies, signaling early indicators of underlying health complications or immunological dysfunctions. Within these dynamics, circulating inflammatory proteins are recognized as critical mediators in immunopharmacology, bridging holistic health, immune response, and oral health. MethodsWe employed genetic data from genome-wide association studies to perform comprehensive Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses on 91 circulating inflammatory proteins and 17 oral phenotypes. Six MR algorithms and five auxiliary control measures were utilized to estimate the causal effects. Subsequently, the MR-Bayesian model averaging (MR-BMA) approach was conducted to elucidate the priorities in host-oral communication, followed by network analyses to explore the interactions among phenotypes. ResultsAfter multiple corrections, MR identified five genetically predicted proteins associated with oral phenotypes. Specifically, FGF21 was correlated with Nteeth and DMFS; hGDNF with gingival pain; CCL4 with stomatitis; and S100A12 with denture use. The causal associations remained robust in sensitivity analyses. Nine protein-phenotype clusters were prioritized using MR-BMA. Among these, S100A12, FGF19, FGF21, and CCL4 exhibited extensive correlations with various oral phenotypes. ConclusionsOur study offers novel genetic insights into the causal relationships, prioritizations, and connections between circulating inflammatory proteins and oral phenotypes. These findings comprehensively depict immune-mediated proteomic profiles underlying the host-oral axis, providing significant implications for clinical practice, public health, and immunopharmacology.

Quantitative Analysis of Temporomandibular Joint Adaptations After One Year of Complete Denture Use: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study.

Alterations in occlusal relationships in individuals with complete edentulism considerably disrupt the equilibrium of the stomatognathic system. Evaluation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is crucial during the edentulous phase, as it influences both aesthetic and functional outcomes. This investigation sought to assess alterations in condylar positioning one year after the placement of complete dentures in edentulous patients, with additional objectives to examine variations based on sex and side. This cross-sectional prospective cohort investigation was carried out in the Department of Prosthodontics, involving 15 participants who were systemically healthy, aged between 45 and 60 years, completely edentulous for a minimum duration of one year, and were first-time denture recipients. Following denture insertion, a one-year follow-up evaluation of condylar positioning was conducted using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Analyses were performed on the intercondylar angle, interocclusal gap, and TMJ space (anterior, posterior, superior, and medial). Statistical evaluations were performed using paired and independent t-tests. The significance threshold was set at P < 0.05. The mean ages of the male and female participants were 55.43 years and 56.38 years, respectively. Significant changes were observed in the TMJ spaces and condylar dynamics at the one-year follow-up. The posterior, superior, and medial joint spaces decreased significantly (p = 0.001), indicating the posterior, superior, and medial displacement of the condyle. The interocclusal gap increased significantly from 1.47 mm in males and 1.51 mm in females at denture insertion to 1.79 mm and 1.80 mm, respectively, at follow-up (p = 0.001). The intercondylar angle significantly decreased (p = 0.001). Sex-based differences were noted in the medial joint space and condylar angle on the left side, with larger mean changes in males (p < 0.05). Side-based differences revealed greater superior space, medial space, and condylar angle on the right side than on the left (p < 0.05). This investigation revealed substantial morphometric alterations in the TMJ spaces and condylar positioning following one-year post-complete denture placement, characterized by pronounced increases in interocclusal gap and reductions in intercondylar angle. Consistent monitoring and prompt repair or replacement of dentures are essential for preserving the TMJ integrity and occlusal equilibrium in edentulous individuals.

The nature of saliva and its relationship with the use of removable dentures and its risks to the soft tissue of the oral cavity

The nature of saliva and its relationship with the use of removable dentures and its risks to the soft tissue of the oral cavity

USING THERMOPLASTIC BASE MATERIALS IN THE CLINIC OF ORTHOPEDIC DENTISTRY IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH COMPLETE TOOTH LOSS

Background. Fabrication of high-quality removable orthopedic structures is one of the most important and still unsolved problems in the clinic of prosthetic dentistry. In order to solve this problem, in recent years, new basic dental materials have been developed and researched. Nowadays, orthopedic dentists are increasingly using acrylic-free thermoplastic base materials. They provide opportunities for the treatment of patients, contributing to the improvement of comfort, functionality and aesthetics of complete dentures. The aim of the study is to examine the effectiveness of using basic thermoplastic materials «Vertex ThermoSens» and «Deflex Acrylato» in an orthopedic dentistry clinic in patients with complete absence of teeth. Materials and methods. The base materials used in the study were polyamide (nylon) by «Vertex ThermoSens» (Netherlands) and thermoplastic material based on polymethyl methacrylate by «Deflex Acrylato» (Argentina). We treated 30 patients with complete absence of teeth who had been wearing complete removable dentures made of acrylic base dental materials for the past 4-5 years. New complete dentures were made of thermoplastic dental base materials «Vertex ThermoSens» and «Deflex Acrylato». The effectiveness of prosthetics was evaluated using electromyography of the masticatory muscles (immediately after prosthetics and in certain long-term periods). Results. When analyzing and statistically processing the electromyograms of patients of the first and second groups before prosthetics, the amplitude of compression during the «voluntary compression» test decreased to 188.91±5.16 μV and to 201.13±6.03 μV during the «voluntary chewing» test, which is significantly different from the norm. As for the assessment of the coefficient «K», which in patients with intact dentition is as close to one as possible, its value has almost doubled and is 2.32±0.07. After the orthopedic treatment, the clenching amplitude increases significantly, and the coefficient «K» approaches one. Quantitative indicators of electromyographic studies in patients of the first and second clinical groups after a month and a year of use of complete removable dentures almost do not differ from each other and are close to normal. Conclusions. Based on the research conducted in the clinic of prosthetic dentistry, we noted that in the manufacture of complete dentures from the base thermoplastic materials «Vertex ThermoSens» and «Deflex Acrylato», better fixation and stabilization of these structures is achieved due to a more accurate reflection of the relief of the mucous membrane of the prosthetic bed. Such prostheses are very well processed and polished, which significantly improves their quality and reduces the risk of inflammation of the prosthetic bed mucosa. Based on this, it can be concluded that adaptation to such prostheses takes place in a shorter time and almost without corrections.

Disinfection Strategies for Poly(methyl methacrylate): Method Sequence, Solution Concentration, and Intraoral Temperature on Antimicrobial Activity.

This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial effectiveness of different disinfection protocols for dentures by combining methods, varying intervention sequences, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) concentrations (0.1% and 0.25%), and post-exposure to intraoral temperature. The heat-polymerized poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) was divided into groups (n = 15): control (C, distilled water immersion), B (brushing), I0.1% and I0.25% (isolated NaOCl immersion), B + I0.1% and B + I0.25% (brushing followed by immersion), I + B0.1% and I + B0.25% (immersion followed by brushing), and B + I0.1% + T and B + I0.25% + T (brushing, NaOCl immersion, and overnight exposure to 35 °C ± 2 °C). The post-disinfection exposure to intraoral temperature simulated the denture use during sleeping time. Quantitative evaluation was performed by colony-forming unit (CFU/mL) counting of C. albicans and qualitative analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Data were processed by one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post-hoc test to compare different protocols at the same concentration and among groups (α ≤ 0.05). Applying 0.25% NaOCl in associated protocols, the intervention sequence was no different (B + I and I + B) and caused the lowest C. albicans counts. The 0.1% NaOCl lost part of its action when the immersion method started the protocols. B + I0.25%, I0.25% + B, and B + I0.1% had similar antimicrobial efficacy, but the intraoral temperature (B + I + T) reduced the efficacy of these protocols, regardless of NaOCl concentration. Residual biofilm recolonization was also detected in SEM images. In conclusion, all the combinations between mechanical and chemical methods using 0.25% NaOCl were the most effective against C. albicans. The antimicrobial efficacy of NaOCl at 0.1% changes depending on the intervention sequence. The intraoral temperature influenced the C. albicans recolonization after the disinfection protocols.

Rehabilitation of Completely Edentulous Patient with Cleft Palate Using Neutral Zone and Palatogram Technique

Cleft lips and palates are congenital anomalies affecting the mouth and face. For fully edentulous patients with a cleft palate, crafting complete dentures is particularly challenging. These dentures, which incorporate an obturator and extend into the palate, must be meticulously designed to address issues related to appearance, speech, swallowing, and chewing. Treatment for cleft lip and palate aims to restore function, speech, and aesthetics through the use of fixed prostheses, removable prostheses, and implants. The approach should follow key principles of oral rehabilitation, including maintaining proper physiology, stability, aesthetics, hygiene, and considering patient expectations. To ensure the durability of prosthetic solutions, it is crucial to respect both the periodontal and dental tissues and the biomechanics of the prosthesis. Palatogram is an effective and straightforward technique for assessing and verifying palatal contours, which helps in addressing speech deficiencies related to affected sounds. Managing completely edentulous adults with cleft palates, particularly those who have not undergone surgical intervention, presents a significant challenge for prosthodontists. This case report explores the use of a conventional complete denture for a cleft palate patient, utilizing the palatogram technique to precisely record the palatal contours, the neutral zone technique to optimize denture stability by aligning forces in harmony with oral musculature, and monoplane teeth to reduce lateral forces and enhance denture stability. Together, these techniques aim to improve speech, mastication, and comfort, providing a functional and aesthetic prosthesis suited to the patient’s unique anatomical needs. This case demonstrates the successful rehabilitation of an edentulous cleft palate patient using a conventional complete denture with specialized techniques to address the unique anatomical and functional challenges presented. The neutral zone technique, monoplane teeth arrangement, and palatogram technique were crucial in achieving a stable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing denture. These methods helped optimize denture retention and stability, improve phonetics, and enhance masticatory efficiency, providing the patient with a significant improvement in quality of life and self-confidence. For patients unable to pursue more invasive and costly implant-supported options, such techniques offer a viable and effective solution for complete denture fabrication, allowing for functional and aesthetic rehabilitation within economical constraints.

Association of changes in the number of teeth on psychological distress among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan.

Aging populations worldwide face a substantial burden of psychological distress that affects their quality of life and overall health. Oral health is associated with psychological distress; however, the effect of changes in the number of teeth on psychological distress remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the association of changes in the number of teeth with the development of psychological distress among community-dwelling older adults in Taipei City. From 2005 to 2013, 62,119 community-dwelling individuals aged 65 years and older participated in the physical examination program in Taipei. We collected data on the number of teeth during each examination. Psychological distress was defined as a score of ≥6 on the Brief Symptoms Rating Scale. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was used to examine the longitudinal relationship between changes in the number of teeth and the development of psychological distress. The participants lost an average of 6.6 teeth during the follow-up, with 9.9% of oral examination records showing the loss of ≥5 teeth compared with the previous examination. After GEE analysis with adjustment for multiple covariates, participants were at higher risk of developing psychological distress if they lost 1-4 teeth, 5-9 teeth, or ≥10 teeth compared to that at their previous oral examination. Subgroup analysis revealed that participants with ≥20 teeth at baseline and those who used dentures to compensate for the tooth loss had a lower risk of developing psychological distress than those who experienced tooth loss and did not use dentures. A rapid decrease in the number of teeth is associated with an increased risk of psychological distress in older adults. Regular dental checkups, nutritional counseling, and the use of dentures are critical in mitigating the adverse psychological effects of the tooth loss.

Assessment of Denture’s Continuous Wearing as a Factor Predisposing to Chronic Atrophic Candidiasis in a Sample of Lebanese Denture Wearers: A Clinico-microbiological Study

Background: Chronic atrophic candidiasis (CAC), commonly referred to as denture stomatitis, is the most prevalent multifactorial, chronic inflammatory oral condition amongst denture wearers. Denture’s continuous wearing is considered a risk factor predisposing to CAC. The aim of this study was to evaluate this factor and its relationship with the occurrence of CAC in a Lebanese population. Material and Methods: Two hundred ninety (161 women, 129 men; age range 40-80 years) were selected for this study. Swab samples from the palate and the palatal surfaces of the upper dentures of these patients were collected and examined mycologically. Denture’s continuous wearing and colonization by Candida albicans were evaluated. Results: In this sample of 290 patients, 85 (29.31%) wear their dentures continuously and 170 (58.62%) exhibited clinically and microbiologically CAC. With respect to the patient’s age, 41 out of the 65 patients (63.07%) aged between 40 and 60 years showed CAC against 129 (57.33%) who are older than 60. Conclusion: This study supports previous findings that denture continuous use of denture is a significant factor that contributes to CAC.

Denture use and a slower rate of cognitive decline among older adults with partial tooth loss in China: A 10-year prospective cohort study.

Denture use has been shown to improve nutritional intake and diet quality in people with tooth loss. Despite evidence linking tooth loss and dementia, few studies have examined the association between denture use and cognitive decline. We investigated the relationship between denture use and cognitive decline among Chinese older adults with tooth loss. We analyzed data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2008-2018, including 27,708 community-dwelling dentate and edentulous (i.e., who have lost all natural teeth) older adults aged 65 and older. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination from 2008 to 2018. Linear mixed-effect models were employed to assess the association of denture use with baseline cognitive function and rate of cognitive decline, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, health-related behavior, and health status. Subgroup analyses evaluated differences in associations among dentate participants with varying degrees of tooth loss (1-9, 10-19, 20-31). Compared to non-denture users, dentate participants who used dentures had better baseline cognitive function (β, 1.032; 95% CI, 0.813-1.251; p < 0.001) and a slower annual decline in cognitive function (β, 0.127; 95% CI, 0.047-0.206; p < 0.01). For edentulous participants, denture use was associated with higher baseline cognitive function (β, 3.063; 95% CI, 2.703-3.423; p < 0.001) but not with the rate of cognitive decline (β, 0.011; 95% CI, -0.082 to 0.105; p = 0.818). Results remained consistent across subgroups of dentate participants with various degrees of missing teeth. Denture use may help protect against cognitive decline in older adults with partial tooth loss. This study highlights the potential importance of prosthodontic rehabilitation in preserving cognitive health. Further research is needed to establish a causal relationship between denture use and cognitive function.

Dental Clinicians' and Technologists' Experiences and Perspectives on Removable Complete Denture Fabrication Services in Makerere University Dental Hospital, Uganda.

Globally, there is growing concern regarding mouth sores, occlusion, cost, ridge resorption, and retention, in the delivery of removable complete dentures fabrication services brought about by the aging of the population and poor oral healthcare. The therapy for edentulous patients can be realized through the use of conventional removable complete dentures, implant-supported prostheses, and computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM). In Uganda, the therapy for edentulous patients has predominantly been realized through the use of conventional removable complete dentures. There has been a discernible difference in the number of visits and remake rate between removable complete dentures that were made conventionally and digitally. This present study, therefore, aimed to explore dental clinicians' and technologists' experiences and perspectives on removable complete denture fabrication services. The study employed a qualitative design, 25 in-depth interviews were conducted with dental clinicians and technologists at Makerere University Dental Hospital. Both practicing dental technologists and clinicians were purposively selected after providing written informed consent. Interviews' audios were transcribed verbatim, coded in NVivo 14 and data were analyzed thematically. Clinical and socio-demographic assessments like age, oral hygiene, ridge level, underlying health conditions, and mental stability of the patient were done by dental clinicians before removable complete denture fabrication. Dental technologists and clinicians mentioned patients having a lot of expectations relating to being able to eat whatever they like and improving physical appearance. However, the patients also had fears and concerns about discomfort, and some worried that they would swallow the dentures. Prior assessments were the basis for planning for complete denture therapy. Patients' fears and expectations can effectively be addressed in the consent process since adequate information can be shared and the patients can be psychologically prepared to receive the denture treatment.

LESÕES DA CAVIDADE ORAL ASSOCIADAS A PRÓTESES DENTÁRIAS MAL ADAPTADAS E HIGIENE INADEQUADA: REVISÃO DE LITERATURA

Dental prostheses are essential solutions for edentulous patients, providing oral rehabilitation and improving quality of life. However, ill-fitting dentures and inadequate oral hygiene practices can lead to oral lesions, such as traumatic ulcers, fibrous hyperplasia, and denture stomatitis. This study reviews articles published between 2020 and 2024 from PubMed, SciELO, and Scopus databases to identify the most common complications and discuss the importance of correct adaptation and preventive hygiene to avoid these lesions. Results indicate that proper denture adjustments and rigorous hygiene practices can significantly reduce the incidence of these issues, particularly in elderly patients. The findings suggest that dental professionals should prioritize periodic prosthetic adjustments and provide thorough patient education on oral hygiene to minimize the risk of lesions associated with denture use.

노인의 저작기능과 삼킴 관련 삶의 질에 대한 연구 : 영향 요인과 상관성 분석

This study aimed to investigate the masticatory function and swallowingrelated quality of life in elderly individuals aged 65 and older and to identify factors affecting their swallowing-related quality of life, with the goal of providing foundational data for future research on oral health and swallowingrelated issues in the elderly. The study assessed 106 elderly participants over the age of 65 at J Dental Clinic in Jeonju. Masticatory function was evaluated using an assessment tool, while swallowing-related quality of life was measured through a quality-of-life scale survey. The results showed a significant correlation between masticatory function and swallowingrelated quality of life. Variables affecting masticatory function included age, denture use, tooth mobility, dry mouth, and masticatory discomfort, while factors influencing swallowing-related quality of life included the number of remaining teeth, regular brushing habits, dry mouth, and masticatory discomfort. This study confirms a significant association between masticatory function and swallowing-related quality of life in the elderly, which can serve as valuable foundational data for future research aimed at improving oral health in the elderly.

Denture Use Mitigates the Cognitive Impact of Tooth Loss in Older Adults.

Denture use may contribute to maintaining cognitive function by addressing the masticatory difficulties caused by tooth loss. However, reports on the association between tooth loss and cognitive impairment have been inconsistent. The impact of changes in tooth number and denture use on the development of cognitive impairment in older adults remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate these impacts among community-dwelling older adults. This 7-year longitudinal prospective cohort study included 64 520 community-dwelling Taiwanese older adults aged ≥65 years without cognitive impairment at baseline. The primary outcome was cognitive impairment assessed using the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire. Older adults with 10-19, 1-9, and 0 teeth, including natural teeth and dentures, had higher risks of developing cognitive impairment than those with ≥20 teeth, with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of 1.40 (95% confidence intervals [CIs], 1.14-1.71), 1.85 (95% CI, 1.40-2.43), and 2.56 (95% CI, 1.74-3.76), respectively. Furthermore, among those with 10-19 teeth (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.52-0.98) or 1-9 teeth (OR, 0.43, 95% CI, 0.27-0.68) at baseline, an increase of more than 1 level in tooth number during follow-up (eg, from 10-19 to ≥ 20 teeth and dentures through the acquisition of dental prosthetics such as dentures, bridges, or implants) was associated with a lower risk of developing cognitive impairment compared with those with a stable tooth number. Our findings suggest that prompt denture use and maintaining >20 teeth (including natural teeth and dentures) mitigate the risk of cognitive impairment associated with tooth loss among community-dwelling older adults.

Removable denture use, fit, and all-cause mortality in older adults with reduced occlusal support: The OHSAKA study

Statement of problemAs the global population ages, tooth loss among older adults has become increasingly prevalent, impacting oral function and overall health. Although removable dentures have been used to improve masticatory function, the long-term effects of denture conditions on mortality are unclear. PurposeThe purpose of this clinical study was to clarify the association between removable denture condition and the mortality rate in older adults with reduced occlusal support. Material and methodsThis longitudinal study analyzed survival data (up to 2022) for 186893 individuals aged ≥75 years who underwent dental examinations through public healthcare services between 2018 and 2020. The participants were categorized into 10 groups (A1 to A3, B1 to B4, and C1 to C3) based on their occlusal support status using the Eichner index. Denture conditions were assessed by private practice dentists and classified into 3 categories: well-fitting, poorly fitting, and not used. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between denture conditions and mortality by considering the following control variables: age, sex, history of chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and dementia), smoking habits, and body mass index for the entire study population and within each of the B1 to B4 and C1 to C3 groups. ResultsSignificantly higher hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality were observed with occlusal support deterioration, poorly fitting dentures, and nonusage, with the peak observed in the C3 group with no dentures. The HRs (with 95% confidence intervals) of well-fitting dentures were consistently the lowest across all groups as follows: 0.98 (0.90 to 1.06) in B1, 1.02 (0.95 to 1.10) in B2, 1.11 (1.03 to 1.19) in B3, 1.14 (1.07 to 1.22) in B4, 1.15 (1.05 to 1.26) in C1, 1.28 (1.21 to 1.37) in C2, and 1.58 (1.46 to 1.72) in C3, with the A1 to A3 group as the reference. Poorly fitting or no dentures were associated with increased HRs in the Eichner groups B3 to C3, compared with well-fitting dentures. ConclusionsThis large population-based cohort study found that well-fitting dentures were associated with lower mortality risk in older adults with reduced posterior occlusal support. Nonusage or poorly fitting dentures were associated with an increased risk of mortality as occlusal support deteriorated.

To evaluate and compare the effect of diabetes and complete denture wearing on the occurrence of Mucor isolates in edentulous geriatric patients

Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore the impact of diabetes and complete denture use on the presence of Mucor isolates in edentulous geriatric patients. Material and Methods: Intraoral swab samples were collected using a sterile culture device, focusing on the center of the hard palate for all patient groups. Immediately after collection, each sample was immersed in a sterile culture-collecting device containing normal saline to prevent swab drying. Subsequently, these swabs were isolated and cultured in Sabouraud’s dextrose agar medium at a temperature range of 25–30°C. Results: Statistical analysis using the Chi-square test revealed no Mucor isolates in any of the four groups. However, the combination of diabetes and complete denture use led to the isolation of other commensal fungi in 65% of samples, contrasting with the non-diabetic, non-denture-wearing group where this occurrence was only 5%. Conclusion: The study concluded that there was no observable correlation between the occurrence of Mucor isolates in edentulous geriatric patients, irrespective of complete denture use, or diabetic status. Nevertheless, the coexistence of diabetes and complete denture use significantly increased the presence of opportunistic fungi in the oral cavity compared to non-diabetic, non-denture-wearing patients.

Association of edentulism and obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review.

Sleep apnea is a common and underdiagnosed sleep-related breathing disorder. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the scientific evidence regarding the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and edentulism. An electronic search was conducted through PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, and Cochrane Library, up to January 2024. A systematic approach was followed according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement guidelines. The literature search intended to retrieve all relevant clinical studies about any possible association between OSA and edentulism. Only publications in the English language were selected, and animal studies, in vitro studies, case reports, case series, technique presentation articles, and expert opinions were excluded. A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this systematic review. They were published between 1999 and 2023 and were all clinical studies. These studies examined a possible association between OSA and edentulism and all of them agreed on their positive relation. Tooth loss favors anatomic alterations that deteriorate breathing. The severity of OSA was related to the extent and duration of edentulism. Mean Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) scores in edentulous patients were found to be two to three times higher in comparison to dentate individuals, although the statistical data about it are scarce. No agreement was reached, however, about the use of dentures during sleep time, since the data are controversial. The findings suggest that there is a plausible association between edentulism and OSA. Tooth loss impairs significant anatomic alterations and increases the risk for OSA. However, clinical data are limited and heterogeneous so more clinical studies should be encouraged for more robust conclusions.