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

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Oral Health
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Limited data exists on oral function in European older adults.
• Oral function is crucial for overall health and quality of life in aging populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare oral function in older inpatients and outpatients.
• To identify predictors of low masticatory performance in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Recruited 62 older adults (inpatients and outpatients) from a Swiss tertiary hospital.
• Assessed oral function including eruptive teeth, denture support, bite force, and masticatory performance.
• Used multivariate analysis to identify predictors of low masticatory performance.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of impaired oral function: 63.9% had low masticatory performance, 62.9% low bite force, and 50% few eruptive teeth.
• No significant difference in masticatory performance, eruptive teeth, or bite force between in- and outpatients.
• Maximal bite force and a low number of eruptive teeth were independently associated with low masticatory performance.

Conclusions:

• Impaired oral function is highly prevalent and similar in older European in- and outpatients.
• Maximal bite force and number of eruptive teeth are potential indicators for screening impaired oral function.
• Basic screening including these parameters could help identify older adults needing intervention.