Dysmasema: Persistent Decline in Masticatory Function Related to Aging and Systemic Factors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Oral Health
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Masticatory dysfunction is often linked to oral diseases and improves with treatment.
• Older adults with systemic diseases may experience persistent masticatory dysfunction even after dental care.
• Existing treatments may be insufficient for masticatory dysfunction influenced by systemic factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current research on masticatory dysfunction related to systemic factors in older adults.
• To propose a new concept, Dysmasema, for persistent masticatory dysfunction.
• To identify key elements for diagnosing Dysmasema.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing research.
• Analysis of clinical, epidemiological, and pathological data.
• Synthesis of factors contributing to persistent masticatory dysfunction.

Main Results:

• Masticatory dysfunction can be refractory to dental treatment in older adults with systemic conditions.
• Dysmasema is proposed as a persistent condition associated with aging and systemic factors.
• Key indicators for Dysmasema include low masticatory performance, subjective eating difficulty, and poor nutritional status.

Conclusions:

• Dysmasema offers a new framework for understanding persistent masticatory dysfunction in older adults.
• Linking masticatory dysfunction with systemic factors aids precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
• This concept supports improved care for elderly patients experiencing chewing difficulties.