Masticatory Performance Research Articles

Relationship between tooth macrowear and jaw morphofunctional traits in representative hypercarnivores

The mammalian adult dentition is a non-renewable resource. Tooth attrition and disease must be accommodated by individuals using behavioral, physiological, and/or musculoskeletal shifts to minimize impact on masticatory performance. From a biomechanical perspective, the musculoskeletal system becomes less efficient at producing bite force for a given amount of muscle input force over an individual’s life, because tooth-food contact area increases as cusps wear. In this study we ask the question: does mandibular biomechanical performance show evidence of compensation with increasing tooth wear? We use representative taxa of three carnivoran ecomorphologies (meat specialist, scavenger, bone cracker) as a study system to compare morphofunctional data on tooth macrowear, jaw depth, bite mechanical efficiency, and jaw stress during biting. No significant shifts in adult mandibular corpus dimensions occurs in the sampled taxa as canine and carnassial teeth wear. In bone cracking spotted hyenas carnassial biting mechanical efficiency increases significantly with increasing tooth wear, with no significant change in mandibular stress. Analyses of the fossil carnivore Hyaenodon suggests an increase in canine biting efficiency with increased tooth wear, but this may reflect interspecific variation or phylogenetic contingency rather than a life history shift. Overall, these findings indicate that scavenging hyaenids and felid meat specialists do not exhibit morphofunctional compensation for the decreased mechanical capability of worn and dull teeth. Behavioral modifications, rather than musculoskeletal adjustments, may instead play a major role in maintaining food acquisition and processing capabilities for individuals surviving into advanced ontogenetic age and tooth wear. These observations highlight the mammalian masticatory system as having a dynamic performance profile through its useful lifespan, and encourage a more nuanced understanding of past and present carnivore guilds by considering wear-dependent performance changes as a possible source of selection.

Comparison of masticatory performance and oral hygiene status using cream-type denture adhesives and home liners: A cross-sectional study using propensity-score matching.

Differences in the effects of cream-type denture adhesives and home liners remain unclear. This cross-sectional study aimed to clarify the differences in the oral-hygiene status and masticatory performance between participants using cream-type denture adhesives and those using home liners. Masticatory performance with and without cream-type denture adhesives and home liners was evaluated using colour-changeable chewing gum. Oral hygiene was assessed using the tongue coating index (TCI). Propensity-score matching was performed using oral moisture, presence of palatal or mandibular protuberances, type of residual ridge, denture type (complete or partial denture), and denture retention as background factors. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to examine the differences in masticatory performance with and without cream-type denture adhesives and home liners and differences in masticatory performance and TCI between the cream-type denture adhesive and home-liner groups. This study included 38 and 40 cream-type adhesive and home-liner users, respectively, and 17 pairs were obtained after propensity-score matching. The Wilcoxon signed-rank tests showed that masticatory performance was significantly different with and without the use of home liners, and higher values were obtained with the use of home-liners. However, the cream-type denture adhesive and home-liner groups showed no significant differences in terms of the change in masticatory performance with the use of them. Furthermore, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests showed that TCI values were significantly high in the cream-type adhesive group. The findings in this study suggest that home liners improve masticatory performance and that participants regularly using cream-type denture adhesives have poorer oral hygiene.

Fundamental cracking performance of asphalt-filler mastics with hydrated lime

This study evaluates the impact of hydrated lime (HL) on the cracking performance at intermediate temperature of asphalt-filler mastics, specifically as a partial replacement for limestone filler (LF). HL, is an active filler known for its multiple benefits in asphalt applications. The Double Edge Notched Tension (DENT) test was used to assess fracture properties, including specific total work of fracture, plastic work of failure, essential work of fracture, and average critical tip opening displacement. The results revealed several key findings: a notable loss of ductility and toughness with increasing HL dosages, a stiffening effect evidenced by increased peak loads and reduced failure deformation, and a decrease in the specific total work of fracture, indicating a loss of fracture energy. However, an enhancement in fracture resistance to plastic deformation is observed with HL addition, although identifying trends at high dosages remains challenging due to complex interactions between HL and LF. Furthermore, using low volumetric concentrations of HL minimizes the adverse impact on fracture performance while leveraging its other beneficial active filler properties. These findings suggest that while HL can improve certain fracture properties, optimal dosages are crucial to avoid adverse effects. Overall, this paper provides an updated and comprehensive study of the fracture of mastics at intermediate temperatures, which adds up to the understanding of asphalt-filler interactions, which can potentially lead to further investigations, such as how the partial replacement of LF with HL affects asphalt mixtures’ performance-related characteristics, particularly the fatigue cracking resistance.

Oral Antacid Use Is Negatively Associated with Serum Prealbumin Levels in Japanese Individuals Undergoing Health Checkups

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the association between physical and chemical digestion and nutrition markers (serum albumin (ALB), prealbumin (PAB), and vitamin B12 (B12) levels). Methods: During a detailed checkup at Fujita Health University, we examined the associations of physical (occlusal force, masticatory performance, and swallowing ability (via the 10-item Eating Assessment Tool, EAT-10)) and chemical (Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication history, HP antibody levels, and oral antacid (proton pump inhibitors) use) digestion parameters with serum ALB, PAB, and B12 levels in 92 individuals (M:67, F:25). Results: Forty-eight percent of the participants were older than 65 years of age, 19% had decreased occlusal force, 3.2% had decreased masticatory strength, 3.2% had decreased swallowing function, 24% had a history of HP eradication, 23% were HP antibody positive, and 16% were taking oral antacid medication. Additionally, 14% and 11% of the patients had low serum ALB and PAB levels, respectively, and 14% of the patients had B12 deficiency. Multivariate analysis adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and C-reactive protein levels revealed that there were no significant associations between the physical digestion parameters and the serum PAB, ALB, or B12 levels. On the other hand, there was a significant association between oral antacid use and PAB levels (β = −3.3, p = 0.04). Independent of physical or chemical digestion parameters, serum PAB and B12 levels were significantly associated with protein and B12 intake, respectively. Conclusions: Oral antacid use may decrease serum PAB levels, indicating protein synthesis.

Removable dental prostheses for patients with Sjögren's syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune condition primarily affecting the salivary and lacrimal glands, leading to pronounced dry mouth (xerostomia) and dry eyes. These symptoms create unique challenges for SS patients requiring removable dental prostheses, as the lack of saliva significantly impacts the retention, comfort, and overall effectiveness of these devices. Without adequate saliva, prosthetic retention diminishes, and patients frequently experience issues such as mucosal irritation and increased susceptibility to infections. To address these issues, tailored material choices are critical in designing effective prosthetic solutions. Soft liners, moisture-retentive acrylics, and antimicrobial coatings are among the innovations improving both retention and comfort for SS patients. The aesthetic and functional outcomes of prosthetic solutions are also essential considerations. Enhanced retention mechanisms, such as implant-supported overdentures, not only improve masticatory performance but also aid in preserving the patient’s facial profile and lip support. Advanced materials offering translucency and color stability contribute to a more natural appearance, which is critical for patient satisfaction. The maintenance of these prostheses requires specific care routines to mitigate microbial buildup and tissue irritation. Specialized cleaning agents and salivary substitutes help maintain hygiene and reduce discomfort, while regular follow-up visits enable timely adjustments to accommodate tissue changes and extend the prosthesis lifespan. Implementing a comprehensive approach that considers material selection, functional and aesthetic outcomes, and maintenance strategies can greatly enhance the quality of life for SS patients. By understanding and addressing the specific needs associated with xerostomic conditions, dental professionals can provide prosthetic solutions that offer both reliability and comfort in this challenging context. Regular patient education and diligent care routines remain essential to ensure the long-term success and durability of removable dental prostheses for individuals with SS.

Effect of oral health on functional disability and mortality in older adults in Japan: a cohort study.

Oral health has previously shown associations with functional disability and mortality. We aimed to explore the associations of various aspects of oral health status with functional disability and mortality using survival analysis, as well as the relative magnitudes of the impact of these aspects on outcomes. We obtained data for individuals aged 75years and older in Shimane, Japan, who had at least one oral health check-up between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2022under Japan's long-life medical care system insurance system. Those with missing data or with functional disability at baseline were excluded. 13aspects of oral health status were assessed by dentists or dental hygienists as part of the check-up (using protocols provided by the JapanDental Association and the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare): number of remaining teeth, subjective masticatory performance, objective masticatory performance, periodontal tissue status, functional dysphagia, tongue mobility, articulation, oral hygiene, number of decayed teeth, inadaptation of dentures of the upper jaw and lower jaw (considered separately), oral mucosal disease, and dry mouth. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyse the associations between each aspect of oral health and functional disability and mortality, with fully adjusted models adjusting for sex, age, BMI, medical history, or a propensity score derived from these covariates. Population-attributable fractions (PAFs) were calculated to assess the differential impacts of these oral health status aspects on outcome occurrence. Of the 24 619individuals who had an oral health check-up during the study period, 21 881individuals wereincluded in the analysis of functional disability (9175 [41·93%] men, 12 706 [58·07%] women, mean age 78·31years [SD 2·88], mean follow-up 41·43months [20·80]), and 22 747individuals in the analysis of mortality (9722 [42·74%] men, 13 025 [57·26%] women, mean age 78·34years [2·89], mean follow-up 42·63months [20·58]). All 13aspects of oral health status showed significant associations with the occurrence of mortality, while functional disabilitywas associated with 11aspects (excluding oral mucosal disease and dry mouth) in the fully adjusted model. Based on PAFs, of all oral health aspects assessed, objective masticatory performance hadthegreatestimpact on both functional disability (PAF 23·10% [95% CI 20·42-25·69] for the lowest and 10·62% [8·18-12·99] for the second-lowest quartile of performance) and mortality (16·47% [13·44-19·40] and 8·90% [5·87-11·82]). Various aspects of oral health are associated with mortality and functional disability. Maintaining good oral health in older adults might help to reduce these outcomes. None.

Predicting cognitive function changes from oral health status: a longitudinal cohort study

Recent studies indicate a potential link between oral health and cognitive function; however, long-term associations remain unclear. This study aimed to identify oral health factors that predict changes in cognitive function among older adults over time. The study included 583 independent older adults (201 male, 382 female) with a mean age of 72.7 years. Cognitive function was assessed using Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at baseline and follow-up over two years, with relative change in MMSE (rMMSE) calculated. Baseline oral health variables included number of remaining teeth, masticatory performance, occlusal force, oral diadochokinesis and tongue pressure. Physical performance and confounding factors were also considered. The relationship between rMMSE and the variables was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation, Mann-Whitney U test, and multiple linear regression analysis. Cognitive function declined in 196 subjects, with rMMSE significantly correlated with oral diadochokinesis. Regression analysis revealed significant associations between cognitive changes and oral diadochokinesis (p = 0.020) and knee extension strength as a physical performance (p = 0.047). Our findings suggest that cognitive decline may be indicated by declines in both physical and oral motor performance. Incorporating oral diadochokinesis testing into health screenings could aid early detection of cognitive decline, improving outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens.

The Association of Walking Ability with Oral Function and Masticatory Behaviors in Community-Dwelling Older People: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objectives: An association between oral function and physical fitness, including walking capacity, has been reported. However, the association between masticatory behaviors and walking ability-both of which represent patterns of movement in daily life-has not been clarified. This study aimed to investigate the association between masticatory behaviors, oral function, and walking capacity in older people. Methods: One hundred community-dwelling older people (31 men, 69 women, mean age 75.7 ± 6.3 years) were selected to participate in this study. Age, sex, masticatory behaviors, oral functions (tongue pressure, tongue-lips motor function, occlusal force, and masticatory performance), and walking capacity were assessed. Masticatory behaviors were assessed during the consumption of one rice ball (100 g) using a wearable chewing counter, and the number of chews, chewing rate, the number of chews per bite, and meal time were recorded. Walking capacity was assessed using the timed up and go test (TUG). Spearman's rank correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the strength and direction of the association. Results: Moderate negative correlations were observed between TUG time and tongue pressure and between TUG time and tongue-lips motor function (/ta/ and /ka/) (rs = -0.33, -0.21, -0.28, respectively). In addition, moderate negative correlations between TUG time and chewing rate (rs = -0.22) and between TUG time and meal time (rs = 0.33) were observed, suggesting that lower walking capacity was associated with slower chewing rate and longer meal times. Conclusions: In community-dwelling older people, declines in mastication speed and dexterity and tongue strength are associated with lower walking capacity.

Association and relevant factors between objective masticatory performance and subjective masticatory ability among community-dwelling older adults

Background/purposeDentists often focus on masticatory performance (MP) rather than masticatory ability (MA) and treatment expectations when evaluating older adults. This study aimed to determine if MA aligns with MP and to explore influencing factors. Materials and methodsThis cross-sectional study utilized a multi-stage stratified cluster sampling, including one thousand community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older. Participants underwent oral exams and questionnaire interviews, assessing tooth count and Eichner index (EI) levels. MP and MA were quantified using a standard gummy jelly test and a 14-food group questionnaire, respectively. Multivariable linear regressions analyzed correlations between MP, MA, and related factors. ResultsApproximately 25 % of participants exhibited poor MP. Factors contributing to poor MP included increased age rise, low education, number of chronic diseases, tooth loss, without the assistance of removable dentures, and being in EI group C (all P < 0.05). Tooth count showed a significant negative correlation with MP (P < 0.001). Participants' MP declined significantly from good to poor, with MA scores decreasing from 11.96 to 7.52 (P < 0.001). The tooth number was a common factor influencing MA across food groups (all P < 0.05). The decline in MA among older adults was linked to age rise, tooth loss, lack of assistance of removable dentures, and being in EI group C. ConclusionSelf-rated MA in older adults effectively reflects their MP. Maintaining a high tooth count to meet occlusal support and the use of dentures to assist with tooth loss in older adults help to improve their MA.

Sexual Dimorphism and Divergent Evolutionary Pathways in Primate Cranial Biomechanics: Insights From a Theoretical Morphology Framework.

The mammalian order Primates is known for widespread sexual dimorphism in size and phenotype. Despite repeated speculation that primate sexual size dimorphism either facilitates or is in part driven by functional differences in how males and females interact with their environments, few studies have directly assessed the influence of sexual dimorphism on performance traits. Here, we use a theoretical morphology framework to show that sexual dimorphism in primate crania is associated with divergent biomechanical performance traits. The degree of dimorphism is a significant covariate in biomechanical trait divergence between sexes. Males exhibit less efficient but stiffer cranial shapes and significant evolutionary allometry in biomechanical performance, whereas females maintain performance stability across their size spectrum. Evolutionary rates are elevated for efficiency in females whereas males emphasize size-dependent cranial stiffness. These findings support a hypothesis of sex-linked bifurcation in masticatory system performance: larger male crania and faster size evolution partially compensate for low efficiency and reflect a de-emphasis of mechanical leverage, whereas female crania maintain higher mechanical efficiency overall and evolve more rapidly in molar-based masticatory performance. The evolutionary checks-and-balances between size dimorphism and cranial mechanical performance may be a more important driver of primate phenotypic evolution than has been hitherto appreciated.

Association between the type of dental prosthesis and the masticatory performance of institutionalized patients: A cross-sectional study.

This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the chewing ability of 97 institutionalized older adults and its relevance to their status of dentition and type of prosthetic rehabilitation. The participants were categorized according to their dental status. The chewing ability was determined by semi-quantitative evaluation of a colour-changeable chewing gum and by recording the personal perception of the participants on a similar scale. The colorimetric means of the participants was significantly lower than the perception means. One-third of the participants had at least one jaw restored with complete dentures, while 17% were restored with tooth-supported or implant-supported fixed partial dentures. Based on the colorimetric method, edentulous participants displayed significantly lower chewing performance compared to all other groups. Additionally, participants with at least one complete denture exhibited weaker chewing function than those with natural teeth or fixed partial dentures. The age and sex of the participants had no further impact on the results. As the institutionalized elderly seem to overestimate their chewing efficiency, the colour changeable chewing gum could be used in nursing homes, as a simple method to determine their real masticatory function status and improve their dental care.

Hardness Analysis of Foods in a Diet Based on the Mediterranean Diet and Adapted to Chilean Gastronomy.

The human diet is a factor for disease prevention and the extension of life expectancy. Loss of teeth can adversely affect chewing capacity, which can lead patients to modify their diet and subsequently result in a poor dietary intake. This work is conducted within the framework of an ongoing research project in the Dentistry School of Universidad de la Frontera aimed at designing a diet for patients with complete removable dental prostheses (CRDP). This study aimed to evaluate the hardness of foods in a diet designed for patients using CRDP, using texture profile analysis (TPA). TPA was used to measure the hardness of 43 foods, categorized into seven groups, dairy, animal protein, fruits, vegetables, cereals and grains, high-lipid foods, and vegetable protein, to understand their impact on masticatory performance in CRDP wearers. TPA consists of two compression cycles where the food sample is compressed until it reaches a pre-established deformation. The first force peak achieved in the first cycle is used as a measure of sample hardness. Significant differences in hardness were identified within each food group, indicating a wide spectrum of textural properties that could influence chewing behavior. These findings suggest that assessing food hardness can help tailor dietary recommendations to improve masticatory efficiency in patients with dental prostheses.

Thermal Facial Profile and Orofacial Myofunctional Aspects in Movement Disorder Patients: Comparison Between Parkinson Disease and Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3.

To evaluate the orofacial myofunctional characteristics, masticatory performance and facial thermal profile in individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) and spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA3), comparing with healthy control ones. Seventy-two participants aged between 30 and 85 years were evaluated and divided into PD, SCA3 and control groups. The assessments included clinical evaluation using the Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation with Scores protocol (orofacial structures, mastication, swallowing and breathing aspects), masticatory performance assessed with a colour-changeable chewing gum and infrared thermography. The Kruskal-Wallis, one-way ANOVA and Wilcoxon tests were applied. With the exception of face and tongue, a difference was seen in the cheek, maxillomandibular relationship, lips, mentalis muscle and palate appearance and posture between patients and healthy control participants. Orofacial mobility, swallowing and masticatory function also scored higher in the control group. The SCA3 and PD groups required more time to eat the test-food and showed greater facial temperature asymmetries than the control one (p < 0.05). Masticatory performance measured by chewing gum did not differ. Facial temperature asymmetries, swallowing and masticatory function scores and the time needed by the SCA3 and PD groups to eat the test-food were different from healthy participants, drawing attention to the impaired orofacial functions in patients with neurodegenerative disorders.

Sewage sludge ash as filler in asphalt mastic: Low-temperature towards high-temperature performance

The sewage sludge ash (SSA) is characterized as a by-product used in the pavement industry to mitigate the environmental risks, enhance the landfill capacity and conserve the non-renewable resources. This research utilized SSA as a filler substitute in asphalt mastic, and its performance-based properties from low towards high temperatures were evaluated. For this goal, the physical and chemical properties of SSA and rock powder (used as base filler) were determined using BET surface area measurement, X-ray fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy tests. The performance of base and SSA-modified asphalt mastics in four filler/bitumen weight ratios (0.6, 0.8, 1, and 1.2) was investigated using dynamic shear rheometer, multiple stress creep and recovery, linear amplitude sweep, and bending beam rheometer tests across a wide temperature range. The results indicate that SSA has a higher specific surface area, better bitumen absorption, and lower density compared to the base filler. Additionally, unlike the acidic nature of the base filler, SSA possesses strong basic properties, leading to a stronger chemical bond with bitumen and enhanced resistance to aging, particularly at high temperatures. Moreover, the lower density of SSA escalates the amount of filler per unit volume of the SSA-modified asphalt mastic, leading to the increased stiffness and elasticity. This trend improves resistance to permanent deformation and cracking at medium temperatures, although it has an adverse effect on performance of mastic at low temperatures. Moreover, due to the improved performance of SSA-modified asphalt mastic, this study can contribute to the sustainable development of the pavement industry.

Investigating the influence of acid-base/KH550 composite surface modified BF on the properties of fiber-reinforced SBS-modified asphalt mastic

The surface properties of fibers significantly influence fiber-reinforced asphalt mastic (FRAM) performance. However, the impact of composite-modified basalt fiber (BF) on basalt fiber-reinforced asphalt mastic (BFRAM) remains unclear. This study examines the effects of acid-base/KH550 modified BFs on BFRAM performance, providing an experimental basis for further optimization. Tests included SEM and fiber leakage for BFs and separation, physical properties, DSR, and DMA for BFRAMs. The research indicates that (1) Composite modification enhances the fiber’s surface roughness, activity, oil-holding properties, and compatibility with SBS-modified asphalt. (2) Due to differences in acid-base etching, acid etching combined with KH550 promotes a more uniform and extensive coupling reaction with the BFs. In contrast, alkali etching with KH550 facilitates a deeper, localized reaction. (3) Composite modification of the BFs significantly improves the high-temperature rheological properties of the BFRAMs, with acid-base etching making the grafting reaction between the fiber and coupling agent more pronounced. At a test temperature of 82°C, the rutting factor of BFRAMs containing composite-modified (acid-etched + KH550) BFs is 2.7 times that of asphalt mastic without BFs. (4) The glass transition temperature of BFRAMs modified by acid etching and KH550 is 4.9°C lower than that of the original asphalt mastic, proving that composite-modified BFs enhance the low-temperature elastic deformation capacity of the BFRAMs.

Mastication and oral myofunctional status in excess weight children and adolescents: A cross-sectional observational study.

Masticatory function seems to play a role in the aetiology of obesity. However, literature on the association between oral myofunctional status and overweight and obesity in children and adolescents is scarce and contrasting. To compare masticatory performance, orofacial myofunctional status and tongue strength and endurance between children and adolescents with overweight and obesity and those with normal weight. Thirty children and adolescents with overweight and obesity and 30 subjects with normal weight matched for age and sex were recruited. All subjects were evaluated with the Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids in Children (TOMASS-C) for masticatory performance and with the Italian Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation with Scores (I-OMES) for the orofacial myofunctional status. Anterior and posterior maximum tongue pressures and tongue endurance were measured. Parents-reported (PRO) duration of meals was recorded. Data were compared between the groups through the paired samples t-test or the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Children and adolescents with overweight showed significantly lower number of bites (p = .033), lower I-OMES scores (p < .05), and shorter meal duration (p = .005) compared to their peers with normal weight. No significant differences were found between the two groups for the number of swallows, the number of masticatory cycles and the total time of the TOMASS-C, and none of the tongue pressure measurements. Eating in children and adolescents with overweight and obesity is characterised by a larger bolus sizes and shorter PRO meal duration. Additionally, overweight and obesity seem to be associated with poorer orofacial skills and structures in the paediatric population.

Influence of denture-bearing conditions on masticatory function and patient-reported outcomes measures.

To investigate the influence of different denture-bearing conditions on the masticatory function and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of complete denture wearers. Sixty edentulous patients were selected and allocated into two groups according to the American College of Prosthodontics' (ACP) classification: non-atrophic (NAT) (Classes I and II) (n = 24) and atrophic (AT) (Classes III and IV) (n = 36). All patients received new complete dentures (CDs). The objective variables (masticatory performance and swallowing threshold) were assessed as well as the PROMs (oral health-related quality of life (OHIP-EDENT), patient satisfaction) and quality of the prosthesis, at baseline (using the old CD) and after 4 months new prostheses use. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney test followed by the Generalized Equations Estimation (GEE), linear regression and Chi-square test. Higher masticatory performance was observed in the NAT group (p < .05) for both time points, baseline and after 4 months. However, compared to baseline, both groups showed significant masticatory improvement after 4 months (p < .05). Satisfaction and overall quality of life improved after 4 months with no difference between groups (p > .05). Regarding the quality of the CD, baseline results were significantly (p < .05) lower in the AT group, but after 4 months, no significant differences were found between groups and in intragroup analysis (p > .05). The denture-bearing conditions seems to impact masticatory function, but the PROMs are barely affected.

A Comparison of Oral Function in Older In- and Outpatients: An Observational Study.

(1) Background: Insufficient data exist regarding oral function among older adults in Europe. Therefore, we aimed to assess and compare oral function between older in- and outpatients and identify predictors of low masticatory performance. (2) Methods: Patients were consecutively recruited from the outpatient center (n = 31) and the inpatient geriatric department (n = 31) at a tertiary University Hospital in Switzerland in 2023. Assessments on oral function included the total number of intraoral eruptive teeth, number of supporting zones with dentures, maximal bite force (Dental Prescale II, Fuji Film Corp., Tokyo, Japan), and masticatory performance (Hue-Check Gum©, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland) using a visual (SA1-SA5) and a digital (SD_Hue) scale. The visual and digital assessment of masticatory performance showed a strong correlation (Kendall tau = 0.83). Low masticatory performance was defined as SA-Grade 1-2 (vs. SA3-SA5 as reference). In a multivariate model adjusting for age, sex, and clinical setting, we investigated associations of maximal bite force, few eruptive teeth, and few supporting zones with low masticatory performance. (3) Results: Mean age was 81.9 (standard deviation (sd) 5.2) years, and 62.9% were female. Overall, maximal bite force was 247 N (sd 261). A total of 39 patients (63.9%) had a low masticatory performance, 62.9% a low maximal bite force, and 50% a low number of eruptive teeth (<10). Masticatory performance, number of eruptive teeth, and maximal bite force did not significantly differ between in- and outpatients. The number of supporting zones was significantly higher in outpatients compared to inpatients (median 4, interquartile range (IQR) 4-4; vs. 4, IQR 2-4; p = 0.03). In the multivariate model, maximal bite force and a low number of eruptive teeth were independently associated with low masticatory performance (adjusted odds ratio 7.4 (95% CI, 1.8-30.4; p < 0.01), and OR 7.8 (95% CI, 1.7-36.4; p < 0.01), respectively). (4) Conclusions: Impaired oral function is highly prevalent in both European older in- and outpatients to a similar degree. The association of low masticatory performance with maximal bite force and with a low number of eruptive teeth may indicate that a basic screening should include either of these parameters to identify impaired oral function.

Assessment of masticatory performance in pediatric patients receiving preformed crowns by Hall technique: a controlled clinical trial.

The purpose of the study was to assess and compare the masticatory performance in children receiving preformed metal crown by Hall technique and conventional technique. Children having teeth indicated for restorative/endodontic therapy and belonging to the age group of six to ten years were invited to participate in the study. Eighteen children received preformed metal crowns (PMCs) by Hall technique. Meanwhile, nineteen children received preformed metal crowns by the conventional technique. Their masticatory performance (MP) was assessed at T0 (pre-intervention), T1 (day 1 post-intervention), T2 (1week), T3 (2weeks), T4 (1month) and T5 (3months) using Hue-check Gum® (University of Bern, Switzerland). The chewing gum samples were scanned within 24h of their collection and processed in the ViewGum Software©. The software calculated the hue value (VOH) which indicated the masticatory performance of the individual. A questionnaire was given to the parents at T4 and T5 to assess any discomfort or pain associated with PMCs placed in both groups. The evaluation of masticatory performance using the two-color chewing method revealed reduction in MP on day 1 post-intervention (p < 0.001) for both groups. However, the MP values recorded at T5 were comparable to the baseline values at T0 (p = 0.009). No significant discomfort or pain was reported in both groups. The findings of the current clinical study indicate that placement of PMCs by both conventional and Hall technique in children deteriorates their MP which equilibrates within 1month. CTRI/2021/02/031532 [Registered on: 25/02/2021]-Trial Registered Prospectively.

Craniosynostosis: orofacial and oral health perspectives with masticatory insights

BackgroundCraniosynostosis (CS), premature fusion of one or more cranial sutures, leads to abnormal skull development, impacting both facial esthetics and oral function. This study aimed to evaluate the specific orofacial and oral health characteristics, including masticatory performance, in Thai patients with CS.MethodsA comparative study was conducted with Thai CS patients aged 6–17 years and a control group of healthy individuals with similar age distribution. Assessments included craniofacial morphology, oral health status, and masticatory performance. Intergroup comparisons utilized appropriate statistical tests.ResultsThe study included 24 CS patients with a mean age of 10.11 ± 2.98 years and 30 controls. CS patients exhibited a significantly higher prevalence of various oral conditions compared to controls: cleft palate (20.8%), anterior open bite (41.7%), anterior crossbite (54.2%), posterior crossbite (50%), combined anterior–posterior crossbite (45.8%), dental crowding in both maxilla and mandible (50% and 45.8% respectively), congenitally missing teeth (50%), supernumerary teeth (12.5%), and eruption failure (54.2%). Furthermore, CS patients exhibited significantly higher caries prevalence and susceptibility, alongside poorer oral hygiene, compared to controls. Regarding jaw relationships, CS patients exhibited a significantly higher proportion of Angle's Class III malocclusion (50%) compared to the control group, where Class I malocclusion was predominant (50%). Masticatory performance, assessed using the two-color gum mixing ability test, showed significantly higher hue variance in CS patients (0.12 ± 0.07) compared to the control group, indicating reduced chewing performance.ConclusionThis study underscores the significant orofacial and oral health challenges faced by children with CS, including a high prevalence of malocclusions, dental anomalies, elevated caries experience, and compromised masticatory function. These findings emphasize the importance of tailored interventions and comprehensive oral healthcare strategies to address the unique needs of this population and improve their overall quality of life.