Association of Masticatory Function With Mortality in Older Adults

The world is rapidly ageing. Tooth loss, the consequence of various age-related oral diseases, leads to decreased chewing function and has emerged as a significant public health concern. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between masticatory function and mortality in older adults.

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009-2018 were analysed. Mortality details were obtained from the National Death Index (NDI). Chewing capacity was determined by the number of functional tooth units (FTUs) that was defined as pairs of opposing natural and artificial teeth in the premolar and molar regions. Weighted Cox proportional hazards models were employed to assess the relationship between FTU and mortality risk. Propensity score matching (PSM) analyses and subgroup analyses were conducted to further assess the association between FTU and mortality.

5,780 individuals aged 60 and above were involved in this study. The risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 2.4, 95%CI 1.8-3.3) was higher for participants with 0 ≤ FTUs ≤ 3 compared to those in the 10 ≤ FTUs ≤ 12 group. After PSM, a significant increase in the risk of all-cause mortality (HR = 1.8, 95%CI 1.4-2.2) was observed in the 0 ≤ FTUs ≤ 3 group compared to the reference group. Subgroup analyses revealed consistent results across all subgroups.

The findings revealed an association between impaired masticatory function and an increased risk of all-cause mortality among older adults.

Study findings show that maintaining and enhancing oral function may help to promote healthy longevity. They also offer guidance for decision-making among older adults and their caregivers.