Assessment of subjective and objective masticatory function among elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment

Abstract

Abstract Background : Masticatory function is known to be related to cognitive ability; therefore, factors for improving masticatory function should be identifed.

Aims : This study aimed to identify factors infuencing masticatory function associated with mild cognitive mpairment (MCI) in elderly individuals.

Methods : A total of 123 elderly participants [mean age: 76.5±6.5 years; 82 females (66.7%), 41 males (33.3%)] were included. Cognitive function was evaluated by the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (KMMSE). Questionnaires for subjective evaluation were administered, and dynamic objective masticatory function valuations, including chewing tests and bite force measurements, were performed. Intergroup diferences were evaluated by the Wilcoxon ranksum and chi-square test, and correlations between cognitive ability and masticatory function were evaluated by multilinear logistic regression.

Results : The number of teeth, number of posterior teeth, bite force, masticatory ability index (MAI) and posterior support status showed signifcant diferences between the normal (KMMSE>23) and MCI (KMMSE≤23) groups. However, only the MAI, representing dynamic masticatory performance, was signifcantly associated with MCI regardless of age, sex and removable prostheses. The number of teeth and posterior teeth, bite force, subjective masticatory ability and posterior occlusal support showed no signifcant association with MCI.

Discussion : These results suggested the importance of chewing function for preventing the progression of cognitive impairment.

Conclusions : Considering that only the MAI was signifcantly associated with MCI, it is more important to improve chewing efciency by harmonizing therapeutic prosthetics with the surrounding masticatory system than simply increasing the number of teeth to prevent or delay cognitive impairment in elderly individuals.