Date of Completion
5-12-2019
Embargo Period
4-22-2020
Advisors
Jane Ungemack, Angela Bermudez Millan, Geraldine Weinstein
Field of Study
Public Health
Degree
Master of Public Health
Open Access
Open Access
Abstract
Background: Masticatory impairment impacts both oral health as well as general health. Self-perceived chewing ability can be a tool to assess denture satisfaction, food choices and quality of life. Objective: To describe the perceived chewing ability with or without use of dentures in adults of different ages and implications in food choices. Methods: Administration of a 20- question survey to adult patients at the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) residency clinic at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. Results: Chewing ability and food choices were significantly impacted by denture status (p = 0.015). Denture status was significantly associated with education (p=0.043). Perceived chewing ability was not associated with age. Conclusion: Denture status impacted chewing ability. Denture wearers presented increased difficulty chewing vegetables, fruits, meat and breads. Limited food choices could potentially impact their health. Education was significantly associated with denture status.
Recommended Citation
Cuberos Guevara, Mara, "Perceived Chewing Ability in Adults with or without Dentures" (2019). Master's Theses. 1361.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/gs_theses/1361
Major Advisor
Jane Ungemack