Masticatory ability assessments and related factors

One of the most important aspects of denture treatment is to restore masticatory function to improve food intake. Masticatory ability assessments are done either objectively or subjectively. There are various factors that affect the masticatory ability of denture wearers. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between subjective and objective assessments of masticatory ability and the factors that can possibly affect this ability, including the residual ridge heights, age, gender, and denture type. A cross-sectional study of 34 denture wearers was carried out. All the dentures were fabricated in the Dental Teaching Hospital Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia. The data collected were as follows: sociodemographic data, denture type, and masticatory ability, which was measured using two different methods. Masticatory ability was assessed subjectively using a validated questionnaire while the objective portions were carried out by asking the subjects to chew on Xylitol chewing gum (Evaluating Gum Xylitol®). Residual ridge heights were measured using modified mouth mirror number 3. There was no significant correlation between the results of the objective and subjective assessments of masticatory ability (p=0.136). Residual ridge height (p=0.003) had a significant relationship with masticatory ability; however, age (p=1.000), gender (p=0.711), and denture types (p=0.218) did not. In conclusion, residual ridge height was found to have a relationship with masticatory ability.