A Multidisciplinary Analysis for Clinical Implications of Denture Use in Patients Presenting With Deep Neck...

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Deep neck infection (DNI) is a severe condition often originating from dental issues.
• Dentures can harbor polymicrobial biofilms, potentially increasing the risk of oral pathogen transmission.
• The specific role of dentures in predisposing individuals to DNI requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between denture use and the incidence of deep neck infections (DNIs).
• To identify risk factors for severe DNI outcomes in denture wearers.
• To address a gap in understanding orodental risk factors for DNIs.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 337 DNI patients (August 2018 - July 2024).
• 29 patients identified as denture wearers were compared to non-denture wearers.
• Clinical parameters including demographics, comorbidities, infection details, and outcomes were analyzed.

Main Results:

• DNI patients with dentures showed significantly higher involvement of parapharyngeal, submandibular, and parotid spaces.
• Univariate analysis indicated age ≥60, high CRP levels, and multi-space DNI predicted prolonged hospitalization.
• Multivariate analysis confirmed age ≥60 as the sole independent predictor of prolonged hospitalization in DNI patients.

Conclusions:

• Denture use is associated with more complex DNI presentations.
• Advanced age (≥60 years) is a key independent risk factor for prolonged hospitalization in denture wearers with DNI.
• Targeted health education and preventive strategies are crucial for elderly denture users to mitigate DNI risks.