The comparative evaluation of various chewing strokes/cycle on masticatory ability of geriatric population wearing complete denture using photocolorimetry method.

Introduction

Edentulism is common in the geriatric population due to increased life expectancy. Tooth loss impairs mastication, leading to poor digestion and compromised nutrition. Although implant-based dentures exist, conventional complete dentures remain the more feasible option in developing countries due to affordability.

Masticatory ability in denture wearers depends on denture fit, oral mucosal health, ridge form, and the occlusal scheme. Chewing pattern also influences chewing efficiency. This study focuses on assessing the effect of switching chewing sides within a mastication cycle.

 Need for the Study

There is no previous research evaluating how different chewing strokes/cycle side-switch patterns affect chewing efficiency in complete denture wearers using the photocolorimetry method. Hence, this study aims to fill this gap.

 Objectives

Primary Objectives

 

1. 1.    Evaluate masticatory ability at different chewing stroke side-switch points.

 

1. 2.       Evaluate masticatory ability during unilateral chewing.

 

1. 3.       Evaluate masticatory ability during freestyle chewing.

 

1. 4.       Compare side-switch techniques with unilateral and freestyle chewing using photocolorimetry.

 Secondary Objective

Assess patient perception of denture retention using Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

 Methodology

Study includes completely edentulous geriatric patients from Prosthodontics department.

Complete dentures fabricated as per standard protocols; a 1-week settling period is allowed.

Masticatory ability test:

Patients chew a pre-weighed beetroot piece for 20 strokes.

Different groups: side-switch strokes  unilateral chewing, freestyle chewing.

Beetroot dye mixed with saliva is collected.

10 ml distilled water added; mixture centrifuged for 2 minutes.

Solution filtered and analyzed using photocolorimetry.

A standard beetroot solution prepared similarly for comparison.

Chewing efficiency measured by comparing sample absorbance with standard.

 Patients rate denture retention on VAS.

 Data compilation followed by appropriate statistical analysis.

 Conclusion

The study aims to identify which chewing pattern provides maximum masticatory efficiency in complete denture wearers, potentially guiding clinical recommendations for geriatric patients.