Healthful eating is a challenge for some older people, especially those who wear dentures. And, while fewer older people today wear dentures than in the past, it is not uncommon. About one-third of older Americans wear dentures. In the United Kingdom - where this study took place - 46% of those over age 65 wear dentures.

To verify the fact that oral health may affect nutrition status, British researchers compared the nutrient intake and oral health of a group of elderly men and women and published their findings in a recent issue of Public Health Nutrition.

The 1000 participants were all over 65 and were part of a larger study - the National Diet and Nutrition Survey. Most lived independently, but about 20% resided in assisted-living housing. Each of the volunteers received a dental examination and was asked about the amount of difficulty they had (if any) consuming certain foods. They also reported everything they ate and drank over a 4-day period.

Residence made a difference

Because the investigators found different patterns depending on the participant's living situation, they reported the results for this factor separately. Of the men and women who were in free-living situations and wore dentures, half reported having difficulty eating hard-to-chew foods like apples, nuts, raw carrots, and well-done steaks. They also reported problems chewing softer foods including tomatoes, lettuce, and toast.

The denture wearers were not the only ones who reported significantly more difficulty eating the foods listed above. The total number of teeth also influenced eating ability. Those with the fewest teeth (10 or less) had many of the same chewing problems as those with dentures.

Not only did these two groups have more trouble chewing, but that trouble translated to poorer nutrient profiles. They consumed less of several important nutrients, including fiber, protein, calcium, vitamins C, E, and some B vitamins, than volunteers who had most of their natural teeth.

Tailored foods can boost nutrition

Interestingly, while many of the volunteers who lived in institutional settings also reported difficulty in eating certain foods, there were no differences in nutrient intake between denture-wearers and those with teeth. A possible explanation may be that, in an institutional setting, the meals may be tailored to the chewing ability of the resident, effectively eliminating any eating problems.

This study confirms other evaluations of nutrition and oral health indicating that the condition of the mouth and teeth affects food intake, and therefore nutrition. The researchers emphasize that this study does not mean that people without their own teeth are malnourished. But, it suggests that they may be more vulnerable to poor nutrition.

Dentures and good nutrition can improve a smile

Wearing dentures at some point may be necessary. However, working closely with a dentist can ensure that they fit properly and are comfortable, minimizing biting and chewing difficulties. Eating may take some practice, as well as a few changes in food choices and cooking techniques.

Here are some ideas from the American Dental Association:

• Start with soft foods cut into small pieces.
• Chew slowly using both sides of your mouth at the same time to prevent the dentures from tipping.
• As you become accustomed to chewing, add other foods until you return to your normal diet.
• Continue to chew food using both sides of the mouth at the same time.
• Be cautious with hot or hard foods and sharp-edged bones or shells.