Tongue function is important for masticatory performance in the healthy elderly: a cross-sectional survey of community-dwelling elderly. Issue 1 (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sagawa, Keiichiro; Furuya, Hiroyasu; Ohara, Yuki; Yoshida, Mitsuyoshi; Hirano, Hirohiko; Iijima, Katsuya; Kikutani, Takeshi
• Is Part Of: Journal of prosthodontic research. Volume 63:Issue 1(2019)
• Page Start: 31
• Page End: 34
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: Elderly -- Oral function -- Masticatory function -- Tongue muscle force -- Speed of tongue movement -- Bite force; Prosthodontics -- Periodicals; Dentistry -- Periodicals; Prosthodontics -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Computer network resources; 617.6905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpor.2018.03.006
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1883-1958

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the influences of oral motor function such as tongue function and bite force on masticatory performance in the elderly. Methods: We randomly selected 245 subjects who has 28 natural teeth among community-dwelling elderly. We evaluated masticatory performance using a gummy jelly, and also measured bite force, tongue muscle force, and the speed of tongue movement. Results: We found that reduced masticatory performance to be associated with decreased the speed of tongue movement and/or tongue muscle force, indicating that reduced oral motor function also influences masticatory performance. Conclusions: These results suggest that keeping oral motor function, as well as maintenance of occlusal support, to be important for maintaining masticatory function in the elderly.