Oral Health Status of the Elderly,With Dietary and Nutritional Considerations |
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| Authors: | A. Papas D.M.D. Ph.D. J. Herman D.M.D. C. Palmer M.Ed. R.D. M. Rounds M.Ed. R.D.H. R. Russell M.D. R. McGandy M.D. M.P.H. S. Hartz Sc.D. R. Jacob Ph.D. R. Feldman D.D.S. D.M.Sc |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, Oral Health Service Department, One Kneeland Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, U.S.A.;2. USDA Human Nutrition Research Center, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A.;3. Veterans Administration, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A. |
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| Abstract: | This paper is a preliminary report of a dental pilot study which was recently conducted with 104 elderly subjects, 77 of whom also participated in a nutrition status survey. The study was comprehensive, including measurements of oral health status, and medical data concerning nutrition status. Also included were questionnaires concerning diet and nutritional habits, and attitudes towards dental care. A literature review is also presented. Statistical analysis reveals correlations between certain food types, (liquid/solid fermentable, slowly dissolving fermentable), and root and coronal decay. The correlation with coronal decay is greater. Some of the data are still undergoing analysis. When all the data are analyzed and available, additional reports will be forthcoming and will describe any other correlations that are found between nutritional and oral health status. Certain new periodontal indices will also be described. The relationships between the oral health status and the nutritional needs of the elderly have not been adequately studied. It is expected that with a broader data base, these relationships will be better understood. |
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