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Purpose: The significance of dental status and oral hygiene on a range of medical conditions is well-recognised. However, the correlation between periodontitis, oral bacterial dysbiosis and visceral surgical outcomes is less well established. To this end, we study sought to determine the influence of dental health and oral hygiene on the rates of postoperative complications following major visceral and transplant surgery in an exploratory, single-center, retrospective, non-interventional study. Methods: Our retrospective non-interventional study was conducted at the Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany. Patients operated on between January 2018 and December 2019 were retrospectively enrolled in the study based on inclusion (minimum age of 18 years, surgery at our Department, intensive care / IMC treatment after major surgery, availability of patient-specific preoperative dental status assessment, documentation of postoperative complications) and exclusion criteria (minor patients or legally incapacitated patients, lack of intensive care or intermediate care (IMC) monitoring, incomplete documentation of preoperative dental status, intestinal surgery with potential intraoperative contamination of the site by intestinal microbes, pre-existing preoperative infection, absence of data regarding the primary endpoints of the study). The primary study endpoint was the incidence of postoperative complications. Secondary study endpoints were: 30-day mortality, length of hospital stay, duration of intensive care stay, Incidence of infectious complications, the microbial spectrum of infectious complication. A bacteriology examination was added whenever possible (if and only if the examination was safe for the patient)for infectious complications. Results: The final patient cohort consisted of 417 patients. While dental status did not show an influence (p = 0.73) on postoperative complications, BMI (p = 0.035), age (p = 0.049) and quick (p = 0.033) were shown to be significant prognostic factors. There was significant association between oral health and the rate of infectious complications for all surgical procedures (p = 0.034), excluding transplant surgery. However, this did not result in increased 30-day mortality rates, prolonged intensive care unit treatment or an increase in the length of hospital stay (LOS) for the cohort as a whole. In contrast there was a significant correlation between the presence of oral pathogens and postoperative complications for a group as a whole (p < 0.001) and the visceral surgery subgroup (p < 0.001). Whilst this was not the case in the cohort who underwent transplant surgery, there was a correlation between oral health and LOS in this subgroup (p = 0.040). Bacterial swabs supports the link between poor oral health and infectious morbidity. Conclusions: Dental status was a significant predictor of postoperative infectious complications in this visceral surgery cohort. This study highlights the importance preoperative dental assessment and treatment prior to major surgery, particularly in the case of elective surgical procedures. Further research is required to determine the effect of oral health on surgical outcomes in order to inform future practice. Trial registration: Trial registered under the ethics-number S-082/2022 (Ethic Committee of the University Heidelberg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The manifestation of oncological alertness during dispensary observation by a dentist is very important. The most accessible options for preventing malignancy of the oral mucosa are sanitation, regular professional oral hygiene, as well as educational work among doctors and the population. However, despite the visual accessibility of tissues and organs of the oral cavity, there is an annual increase in malignant neoplasms in this area. In this case, most patients are diagnosed with a tumor process of the last stage. malignant neoplasms of the head and neck organs require special attention due to high risk of disability even at an early stage. Aim. To evaluate a correlation between malignancy of the oral mucosa and the burdened dental status of patients. Materials and methods. A controlled study was conducted which included 142 patients with cancer of the oral mucosa without sequential or parallel inclusion of patients in groups. Dental status was assessed at help-seeking stage or during clinical examination, as planned, by evaluation of main dental indices. The morphological diagnosis was established using histological verification. Results. The majority of patients with oral tumors had hard dental plaque (81.7 % of cases). The condition of the soft tissues, in addition to presence of the mucous membrane lesion, was characterized by bleeding (69 % of cases). moderate periodontal pathology was detected (19 % of cases). patients with the cavity tumors had an acute traumatic edge of hard tissues (70 % of cases), extensive caries (26 % of cases) and the presence of removable dentures (82 % of cases). Conclusion. The values of parameters evaluated in patients in the study with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral mucosa show its relation to aggravation of general somatic status. All patients in the study required dental treatment and training in oral hygiene care.

Introduction: Poor oral hygiene can cause infections and inflammatory diseases. Data on its impact on outcome after lung transplantation (LuTX) is scarce. Most transplant centers have individual standards regarding dental care as there is no clinical guideline. This study's objective was to assess LuTX‐listed patient's dental status and determine its effect on postoperative outcome. Methods: Two hundred patients having undergone LuTX from 2014 to 2019 were selected. Collected data comprised LuTX‐indication, periodontal status, and number of carious teeth/fillings. A preoperative panoramic dental X‐ray and a dentist's consultative clarification were mandatory. Results: 63.5% had carious dental status, differing significantly regarding TX‐indication (p < 0.001; ILD: 41.7% vs. CF: 3.1% of all patients with carious teeth). Mean age at the time of LuTX differed significantly within these groups. Neither preoperative carious dental status nor periodontitis or bone loss deteriorated post‐LuTX survival significantly. No evidence was found that either resulted in a greater number of deaths related to an infectious etiology. Conclusion: This study shows that carious dental status, periodontitis, and bone loss do not affect post‐TX survival. However, literature indicates that they can cause systemic/pulmonary infections that deteriorate post‐LuTX survival. Regarding the absence of standardized guidelines regarding dental care and LuTX, we strongly recommend emphasizing research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To study the dental and periodontal status of women with breast cancer (BCa) having tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors (AIs) treatment in comparison with control healthy women. Methods: Fifty‐one women on tamoxifen therapy, 52 women on AIs therapy and 52 systemically healthy controls were included in the study. The total number of teeth, the number of teeth indicated for extraction, the number of decayed teeth, and the duration of medication were recorded. Periodontal status was evaluated with gingival index (GI); plaque index (PI); bleeding on probing (BOP); probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment loss (CAL). Results: The lowest number of teeth and decayed teeth was found in AIs users (P <.001 and P =.003 respectively). The highest CAL value was seen in AIs users (P =.042) whereas no significant difference was found between the groups in terms of PI, GI, and PD (P =.102, P =.233, and P =.306, respectively). Lower PI was observed in patients using AIs for less than 2 years (P =.048). Conclusions: While tamoxifen did not affect the dental and periodontal condition, AIs medication adversely affected the dental and periodontal condition by more tooth loss and higher CAL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Medica Croatica is the property of Croatian Academy of Medical Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and Objectives The number of people aged 65 years or older is growing substantially. As a result of increased health burden and tooth retention, more oral health problems are expected in this age group. A poor oral health-related quality of life (OHQoL) can compromise a person's psychological state, social relationships, personal beliefs, and physical health. The aim of this systematic review was to identify oral health factors associated with OHQoL in people aged 65 years or older and to give a comprehensive overview of the body of literature for each oral health factor separately. Research Design and Methods A comprehensive search was performed in five databases. The following terms were used as index terms or free-text words: "Oral Health," "Quality of Life," "Older People." Two researchers independently assessed studies for eligibility based on predefined criteria. Results Of 3,702 references retrieved from the databases, 68 studies were eligible and included (9 randomized clinical trials, 6 cohort studies, and 53 cross-sectional studies). All results were reported descriptively. OHQoL in people aged 65 years or older is positively associated with higher number of teeth, higher number of occluding pairs, implant-retained overdentures, and the shortened dental arch concept and negatively associated with xerostomia, orofacial pain, and poor chewing ability. In the current literature, there is no consensus on the association between edentulism, caries, and periodontal conditions and OHQoL. Discussion and Implications Having a functional dentition (either natural or prosthetic) is important for a good OHQoL, whereas painful or functional complaints are associated with impaired OHQoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Oral diseases are major health problem for society. Demographic, health, personal and clinical factors influence the DMFT index of patients. There is a connection between oral hygiene habits, smoking, amount of food, frequency of intake and the spread of oral diseases. The lack of attention for oral care leads to the appearance of oral lesions. Purpose: The main aim of this study is to determine the factors for oral pathology and to find if there is a correlation between oral status of the patients, their dental habits and attitude to oral health. Participants and methods: Subject of this social study are 603 patients, 380 women (63%) and 223 (37%) men, range age 18 – 82 years. All of them are from North-Eastern Bulgarian regions – Varna, Dobrich, Shumen and Targovishte. Every patient has been asked to answer 20 questions and has undergone a clinical examination. DMFT index was recorded. Results: We found oral mucosal lesions as leukoplakia, lichen planus, Candidal infections, fissured tongue, lingual varicosities and mucocele in 11.44% of patients. Dental caries was found to be prevalent in almost all examined patients. DMFT index varied from 5.01±3.6 to 16.45±4.9 in different age groups. Data about tooth brushing and using of additional methods for controlling the biofilm was also presented. The results showed that younger patients have better oral and dental health and pay more attention on maintaining their oral hygiene. Conclusions: The oral and dental status of the Bulgarian patients can be assessed as average damaged with high treatment needs. To make it better a lot of health promotional and dental preventive activities are needed especially in the field of improving hygiene habits, use of additional funds for hygiene and more frequent dental visits of the whole population.

Aims: Xerostomia syndrome is a significant medical and social problem. It is manifested by objective and subjective symptoms of a "dry mouth" and a decrease in sialometry. The aim of the study was to determine the dental status of students of different nationalities, to identify xerostomia induced on a background of stress, and to assess the effectiveness of the use of moisturizing foams in alleviating xerostomia. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study survey (Fox test) of 100 students of the dental faculty was conducted to detect false xerostomia. The study involved 60 people with false xerostomia, divided into four groups of 15 each according to the nationality. The level of oral hygiene was determined using the Simplified Oral Hygiene and Silness-Loe indices and the rate of salivation was assessed with sialometry method by Pozharitskaya. Oral hygiene instructions were given to the participants. They were to apply moisturizing foams with lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, and aloe vera, two–three times during the day for 3 weeks. A set of statistical programs was used (Microsoft Excel [2007] and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences [SPSS], version 23) to perform Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Shapiro–Wilk, Kruskal–Wallis, and Wilcoxon tests. Results: A statistically significant improvement in oral hygiene was observed in all study participants. A significant increase was detected in the rate of salivation in students from Russia (P = 0.005), Transcaucasian countries (P = 0.006), and Arab countries (P = 0.005). Conclusion: It has been established that the use of moisturizing foam has a positive effect on the rate of salivation and improves the level of oral hygiene, thereby improving the quality of life for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The field of sports in India has its renowned importance. Oral health is mirror to general health. Thus, oral assessment to sports players by a dentist is important. The commonly faced oral health problems among sports players are oral and facial trauma, leading to fracture of facial bones and teeth. Hence, it compromises the function of chewing, loss of muscle balance, and temporomandibular joint problems. The mean of facial trauma experienced by sports players in Mysuru and Chennai was 21% and 17%, respectively. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the oral health status among sports university students in India. Clinical examination was conducted using the World Health Organization's oral health pro forma in 2013. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among sports university students, Melakottaiyur, Chennai. Results: A total of 94 athletes comprising 64 (68%) males and 30 (32%) females in the age group of 18-30 years, with a mean age of 24 ± 5.04 years, were included. The mean decayed, missing, filled (Teeth) value was 2.23 ± 3.01 and 1.87 ± 2.62 for male and female, respectively. Around 64% of sports persons are affected with gingival inflammation, 36% with periodontal condition, and 15% with dental fluorosis. Conclusion: This study concludes that sports persons have poor gingival, dental caries, and periodontal status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and Objectives: Common conditions of daily routine and diet may affect the dental status of individuals in organized groups and professional communities. The aim of this study was to reveal the specific aspects of dental status in orthodox priests and monks of the Yaroslavl region, Russia. Materials and Methods: Dental assessment of 311 participants (111 monks; 111 priests; and 90 local residents, not clergymen – as a control group) was performed, including Decayed, Missed, Filled Teeth, oral hygiene index (simplified), gingival, and Modified Papillary Bleeding Indices (MPBIs). The participants completed a questionnaire on food habits and awareness concerning dental health preservation. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis of the data was performed in SPSS software with the use of Shapiro–Wilk, Dunn's, Fisher tests, z-test as well as Spearman correlation, and ANOVA. Results: The median values of MPBI in monks were higher than in the groups of priests and local residents (P = 0.005). The differences in number of missing teeth were significantly higher in priests compared with local residents (P = 0.011), and the number of filled teeth was significantly higher in priests (P = 0.006) and local residents (P = 0.007) compared with monks. Wedge-shaped defects and erosions were more prevalent in the groups of priests (0.0018 and 0.001, respectively) and monks (0.004 and 0.001, respectively). ANOVA resulted in statistically significant influence of teeth brushing frequency and frequency of food intake on hygienic and periodontal indices values. Conclusions: The increased prevalence of some dental diseases among priests and monks could be attributed to the specific diet, lifestyle, and limited access to dental care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This cross-sectional survey is aimed to reveal oral health-related quality of life among the neglected elders, aged 60 years old and older, living in an elderly home. Materials and Methods: Survey was conducted at the elderly home of Tha-Bar-Wa Center, Thanlyin township, Yangon, Myanmar. Study participants (n = 146) were selected using systematic random sampling. Interview questionnaire and standard questionnaire of oral health impact profile (OHIP-14) were used to collect data and measured oral health-related quality of life. Dental status was assessed by visual inspection of one researcher throughout the survey. Descriptive statistics, t-test, or analysis of variance (ANOVA) was analyzed to demonstrate mean difference and multiple regression for statistically relationships. Results: Unacceptable level of oral health knowledge (72, 49.3%) and practice (83, 56.8%) were determined, regardless of the acceptable level of attitude (114, 78.1%). OHIP-14 scores range in 0-40, with mean standard deviation (SD) of 18.7 (9.7). Numbers of remaining teeth range in 0-32, with mean SD of 13.6 (8.6). OHIP-14 scores were significantly different between the age groups (60-64 and ≥70) (P = 0.006), living with partner or alone (P = 0.020), having >19 teeth to those being edentulous and those having ≤19 teeth (P < 0.001) and as of unacceptable or acceptable knowledge levels (P = 0.022). Significant negative relationship between number of remaining teeth and score of OHIP-14 was found when controlled for age in the year (β = -0.558, 95% CI = -0.828--0.496, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Oral health-related quality of life in this group of neglected elders was averagely low and systematic oral health care is evidently in need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the nutritional factors and oral status of elders living alone and elders living with their families in Korea.Background: Numerous studies have found that the presence of fewer remaining teeth is associated with decreased nutrient intake; however, there is no study comparing the nutritional status and oral status of elders living alone with that of elders living with family based on a nationally representative sample.Methods: A sample of 2904 individuals who participated in the sixth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was reviewed (65-84 years of age). Living status was defined according to the participants' self-reported questionnaire, and a nutrient intake questionnaire was designed as an open questionnaire and used during the face-to-face interviews. The number of existing teeth was used to determine oral status. A complex-sample general linear analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the association between the number of teeth and nutrient intake among elders living with family and elders living alone after adjusting for confounders.Results: Elders living alone were significantly older and tended to have the following characteristics: women, lower household income, lower educational level, poor perceived health status, non-smokers, non-drinkers and lack of physical activity. Elders living alone had a poorer perceived oral health status, had not received an oral examination in the past year, had chewing problems and had fewer existing teeth (P < .05). Elders living with family showed better oral health and nutrient intake status. Participants who had many existing teeth had higher nutrient intake than the participants who had fewer existing teeth.Conclusions: For healthy lives at old age, family support or additional social support for elders living alone should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Oral health is a crucial determinant of quality of life. We aimed to determine oral health condition and factors associated with poor oral status in the adult national population of Qatar.Methods: We used data from the World Health Organization supported STEPS (STEPwise approach to Surveillance) Survey conducted by the Supreme Council of Health, Qatar in 2012. A total of 2,496 Qataris (1,053 men, 1,443 women) answered the national survey. The Rao-Scott Chi-Square test was used to analyze oral health characteristics and multinomial logistic regression to assess risk factors.Results: The self-perceived oral status of approximately 40 percent of respondents was either "average" or "poor" rather than "good." Poor oral status was more often reported by women (OR = 1.93; 95%CI = 1.30-2.80), by older (OR = 3.38; 95%CI = 1.59-7.19) and less educated respondents (OR = 3.58; 95%CI = 2.15-5.96). Other risk groups included people with diabetes (OR = 1.87; 95%CI = 1.24-2.81), smokeless tobacco users (OR = 3.90; 95%CI = 1.75-8.68), or ever tobacco users (OR = 1.66; 95%CI = 1.03-2.67). Oral health status appeared to be independent of diet, BMI status, and history of hypertension. Difficulties and behaviors related to oral health were more frequently reported by women than by men. These included pain (P < 0.001), difficulty chewing (P < 0.001), and discomfort over appearance of teeth (P < 0.001). Participants used toothbrushes, toothpicks, dental floss, and miswak to maintain oral hygiene.Conclusion: Our results provide evidence that oral health remains a public health concern in Qatar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. We aimed to compare oral hygiene habits, orodental status, and dental procedures in patients with infective endocarditis (IE) according to whether the IE-causing microorganism originated in the oral cavity. Methods. We conducted an assessor-blinded case-control study in 6 French tertiary-care hospitals. Oral hygiene habits were recorded using a self-administered questionnaire. Orodental status was analyzed by trained dental practitioners blinded to the microorganism, using standardized clinical examination and dental panoramic tomography. History of dental procedures was obtained through patient and dentist interviews. Microorganisms were categorized as oral streptococci or nonoral pathogens using an expert-validated list kept confidential during the course of the study. Cases and controls had definite IE caused either by oral streptococci or nonoral pathogens, respectively. Participants were enrolled between May 2008 and January 2013. Results. Cases (n = 73) were more likely than controls (n = 192) to be aged <65 years (odds ratio [OR], 2.85; 95% CI, 1.41–5.76), to be female (OR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.20–5.74), to have native valve disease (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.16–5.13), to use toothpicks, dental water jet, interdental brush, and/or dental floss (OR, 3.48; 95% CI, 1.30–9.32), and to have had dental procedures during the prior 3 months (OR, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.18–9.29), whereas they were less likely to brush teeth after meals. The presence of gingival inflammation, calculus, and infectious dental diseases did not significantly differ between groups. Conclusions. Patients with IE caused by oral streptococci differ from patients with IE caused by nonoral pathogens regarding background characteristics, oral hygiene habits, and recent dental procedures, but not current orodental status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Few studies have assessed the impact that oral health status and prosthetic rehabilitation have on the general quality of life ( Qo L) of individuals and there is a lack of information about the association between prosthetic status and Qo L. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the association between clinical oral health variables and general Qo L in individuals aged 50-74 years in Porto Alegre. Methodology This cross-sectional study consisted of 720 participants aged between 50 and 74 years residing in three health districts of Porto Alegre, Southern Brazil. They were selected through multistage proportional random sampling. Data were collected through (i) interview using structured questionnaire on demographic data and the World Health Organization Abbreviated Instrument for Quality of Life Assessment ( WHOQOL- BREF) to assess Qo L, (ii) oral clinical examination using criteria recommended by the World Health Organization ( WHO) and the Epidemiological Survey SB/ Brazil in 2000. The interviews and clinical examinations were performed at their homes by four pairs of trained and calibrated researchers. The scores of Qo L were categorized by their median into low (≤median) and high (>median). The association between outcomes and the factors studied was analysed by Poisson Regression using multiple backward methods, with adjustment for robust variance, and Svyset function scheduled following the stages of the research. Results The physical domain of WHOQOL- BREF was associated with use of upper prosthesis and educational level. The psychological domain score was related to level of education. The decayed, missing and filled teeth ( DMFT), gender and educational level were associated to the social relations domain. In the environment domain, an association with use and need of lower prosthesis, age and educational level was observed. Conclusions Clinical oral health variables such as DMFT and use and need of prosthesis were associated with general Qo L in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Serbian Dental Journal / Stomatološki Glasnik Srbije is the property of National Library of Serbia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction Dental caries has been one of the oldest but still one of the most common oral diseases in humans. Even though it has been almost eradicated in developed countries due to increased fluoride use, adoption of proper oral hygiene habits and systematic implementation of preventive programs, caries remained one of leading oral diseases in developing countries. Epidemiological data about the prevalence of caries is very important for prediction of need for dental care, number of dental care providers as well as financial aspect. The aim of this study was to determine dental status and indicate dental treatment need in adults of the municipality of Foca, Republika Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina). Material and Methods The study included 244 randomly selected residents (131 males and 113 females) from the municipality of Foca which were divided into three age groups: 20-29, 30-39 and 40-49 years. Dental status and need for dental treatment were determined in accordance to the criteria and methodology of the World Health Organization. Results Mean value of DMFT index was 12.7 for the first age group, 16.4 for the second and 20.5 for the third age group of respondents. Dominant components in the first group were restored and carious teeth while in the third age group number of extracted teeth dominated. Also, in the third age group of respondents need for one and two or more surfaces fillings was significantly lower (p<0.01), but need for removable dentures was significantly higher (p<0.01) as compared to other two groups. Conclusion These results indicated high value of DMFT index in adult population of the municipality of Foca. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The erosion of social capital in more unequal societies is one mechanism for the association between income inequality and health. However, there are relatively few multi-level studies on the relation between income inequality, social capital and health outcomes. Existing studies have not used different types of health outcomes, such as dental status, a life-course measure of dental disease reflecting physical function in older adults, and self-rated health, which reflects current health status. The objective of this study was to assess whether individual and community social capital attenuated the associations between income inequality and two disparate health outcomes, self-rated health and dental status in Japan. Self-administered questionnaires were mailed to subjects in an ongoing Japanese prospective cohort study, the Aichi Gerontological Evaluation Study Project in 2003. Responses in Aichi, Japan, obtained from 5715 subjects and 3451 were included in the final analysis. The Gini coefficient was used as a measure of income inequality. Trust and volunteering were used as cognitive and structural individual-level social capital measures. Rates of subjects reporting mistrust and non-volunteering in each local district were used as cognitive and structural community-level social capital variables respectively. The covariates were sex, age, marital status, education, individual- and community-level equivalent income and smoking status. Dichotomized responses of self-rated health and number of remaining teeth were used as outcomes in multi-level logistic regression models. Income inequality was significantly associated with poor dental status and marginally significantly associated with poor self-rated health. Community-level structural social capital attenuated the covariate-adjusted odds ratio of income inequality for self-rated health by 16% whereas the association between income inequality and dental status was not substantially changed by any social capital variables. Social capital partially accounted for the association between income inequality and self-rated health but did not affect the strong association of income inequality and dental status. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aida J, Kuriyama S, Ohmori-Matsuda K, Hozawa A, Osaka K, Tsuji I. The association between neighborhood social capital and self-reported dentate status in elderly Japanese - The Ohsaki Cohort 2006 Study. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2011; 39: 239-249. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S Little is known about the influence of social capital on dental health. The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to determine the association between neighborhood social capital, individual social networks and social support and the number of remaining teeth in elderly Japanese. In December 2006, self-administered questionnaires were sent to 31 237 eligible community-dwelling individuals (response rate: 73.9%). Included in the analysis were 21 736 participants. Five neighborhood social capital variables were calculated from individual civic networks, sports and hobby networks, volunteer networks, friendship networks and social support variables. We used multilevel logistic regression models to estimate the odds ratio (OR) of having 20 or more teeth according to neighborhood social capital variables with adjustment for sex, age, individual social networks and social support, educational attainment, neighborhood educational level, dental health behavior, smoking status, history of diabetes and self-rated health. The average age of the participants was 74.9 (standard deviation; 6.6) years, and 28.5% of them had 20 or more teeth. In the univariate multilevel model, there were statistically significant associations between neighborhood sports and hobby networks, friendship networks and self-reported dentate status. In the multivariable multilevel model, compared with participants living in lowest friendship network neighborhoods, those living in highest friendship network neighborhoods had an OR 1.17 (95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.30) times higher for having 20 or more teeth. There is a significant association between one network aspect of neighborhood social capital and individual dentate status regardless of individual social networks and social support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our aim in this study was to determine whether there is an association between cynical hostility and clinically determined poor oral health, and whether this association is confounded by socioeconomic position and mediated by health behavior. The sample consisted of 4,207 dentate Finns, 30–64 yr of age. Oral health was measured in terms of numbers of missing teeth, of decayed teeth, and of teeth with periodontal pockets (≥ 4 mm). Cynical hostility was measured using the cynical distrust self-administered questionnaire. The subjects with the highest level of cynical hostility had fewer teeth, and a greater number of decayed teeth as well as teeth with deepened periodontal pockets compared to subjects with the lowest level of cynical hostility. The associations between cynical hostility and number of missing and decayed teeth were clearly confounded by level of education. Poor oral health behavior was shown to be a possible mediator between cynical hostility and number of decayed teeth, but not of missing teeth or teeth with deepened periodontal pockets. General health-related behavior did not serve as a possible mediator in any of the associations. In conclusion, cynical hostility can be considered as a risk marker for poor oral health. Interventions aimed to improve oral health should focus on psychosocial factors and on less-educated subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Carcinogenesis of squamous cell carcinomas in the upper aero-digestive tract (UADT) is a multi-stage process. Since 1937, micronuclei (MN) have been considered a marker for genome damage in the initiation stage. By help of the micronucleus test, carcinogenic exposure can be proven in the mucosa area of the UADT. The hypothesis to be tested was that individual oral hygiene and the dental status, respectively – just like alcohol and tobacco abuse – are associated with the micronucleus rate in cytological preparations of the buccal mucosa. In a prospective clinical observation study, we determined in 100 probands the micronucleus frequency per 1000 mucosa epithelial cells. Study participants with a high number of missing teeth (M/T index, p =0.037), a below-average papillary bleeding index (PBI, p =0.032) and periodontal status, respectively (PSI, p =0.042) possessed a higher micronucleus number in comparison with restored dental conditions. Probands with composite restorations displayed a higher MN rate (p =0.006) compared to those with amalgam. However, we could not detect any significant relation with the prosthetic status (p ⩾0.075). An adjustment was made according to alcohol and tobacco. We therefore conclude that subgingival plaque and synthetic dental materials in addition to chronic alcohol and tobacco consumption might have genotoxic relevance in the oral cavity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Conclusion . Our results show that average and poor oral hygiene and inadequate dental status are independent risk factors for oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OOSCC), irrespective of tobacco and alcohol consumption. Objective. To evaluate a possible relationship between oral cancer, oral hygiene, dental status, oral mucosal lesions and some lifestyle factors in a population-based case-control study. Material and methods. Between September 2000 and January 2004, 132/165 (80%) of all incident cases of OOSCC and 320/396 (81%) of the intended eligible matched controls participated in the study. Cases and controls were subjected to an identical oral examination. A standardized protocol specially designed for the study was used. Results. After adjusting for tobacco and alcohol consumption, average oral hygiene (OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.1–3.6) and poor oral hygiene (OR 5.3; 95% CI 2.5–11.3) emerged as significant risk factors for OOSCC. More than 20 lost teeth (OR 3.4; 95% CI 1.4–8.5), >5 defective teeth (OR 3.1; 95% CI 1.2–8.2) and poorly fitting or defective complete dentures (OR 3.8; 95% CI 1.3–11.4) were significant risk factors. Regular dental check-ups were associated with a decreased risk of OOSCC (OR 0.4; 95% CI 0.2–0.6). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk factors for poor dental health include obesity, low socio-economic status, poor dietary habits, and dental anxiety. The aim of this study was to explore the complex relation between body mass index (BMI) and number of teeth in middle-aged women taking education, dietary intake patterns, dental care utilization, and dental anxiety into account. Three groups of women (37-60 years): reference women (group I, BMI 23.8 +/- 3.1 kg/m2), obese women (group II, BMI 35.0 +/- 2.6 kg/m2), and severely obese women (group III, BMI 41.0 +/- 3.4 kg/m2) were included. Questionnaires were used to assess education, smoking, number of teeth, dental care utilization, dental anxiety, dietary intake, and meal patterns. Age, education, and smoking habits did not differ significantly between groups. However, there were significant global differences in number of teeth (27.2 +/- 3.4, 23.0 +/- 9.2, 24.7 +/- 5.9) and reported daily energy intake (9756 +/- 3363 kJ, 10344 +/- 3850 kJ, 11970 +/- 3786 kJ in groups I, II, and m, respectively). In a multiple regression model, a lower number of teeth was independently associated with higher age, higher BMI, lower education, irregular dental care, high dental anxiety, higher energy intake, and lower iron intake. These variables explained 25% of the variation in number of teeth. In conclusion, BMI is an independent predictor of number of teeth in middle-aged women when socio-economic, dietary, and psychological factors are taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to describe the dental health status of a dentate elderly population in terms of remaining teeth, periodontal condition and oral hygiene. In a municipality near Oslo, 371 respondents from a random sample of elderly subjects were clinically examined in 1979/80. Of these, 169 were dentate, 39% had 1-9 teeth and 28% had 20 teeth or more. The mean number of teeth present was 13.8. Income, bone loss and oral hygiene explained most of the variance in the number of remaining teeth whereas age seemed to play a minor rôle. Gingivitis was recorded adjacent to 54% of the teeth. and plaque was visible on 63%. The variance in gingivitis was mainly explained by plaque, calculus and number of remaining teeth, while the amount of plaque was associated with differences in cleaning habits, the number of teeth and social class. 38% of the alveolar bone height was on average lost at teeth present at the time of examination. The variance was mainly explained by presence of plaque and gingivitis. However, the majority of remaining teeth displayed a fair periodontal condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many factors determine dietary intake in older adults, including physical health, psychological well-being and socio-economic status. Dental status may also be important. The aim was to examine how dental status impacts perceived ability to eat to certain foods, nutrient intake and nutritional status in UK older adults. Methods: Data collected by the National Diet and Nutrition Survey Rolling Programme was analysed. A 4-day food diary assessed dietary intake, while a Computer Assisted Personal Interview collected socio-demographic, health behaviour and oral health information. Participants aged 65 years and over (n = 1053) were categorised into three groups according to their dental status: edentate with dentures (E-DEN, n = 292), dentate with dentures (D-DEN, n = 305) or dentate with no dentures (DEN, n = 456). A total of 515 participants provided a blood sample that was used to assess nutrient concentrations including vitamin B12, vitamin C, ferritin, vitamin B6 (pyridoxal-5-phosphate, PLP), retinol, β-carotene and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D). Multiple regression methods were performed to examine cross-sectional associations between dental status, food selection, nutrient intake and nutritional status. Results: Both E-DEN and D-DEN groups, compared with the DEN group, were more likely to report difficulty eating apples, raw carrots, lettuce, nuts, well-cooked steak and crusty bread (P < 0.01). No group differences were observed in perceived ability to eat sliced bread, sliced cooked meats and cheese. The E-DEN group compared with the DEN group had lower mean daily intakes of omega 3 fatty acids (P = 0.006), non-starch polysaccharides (P = 0.001), β-carotene (P = 0.001), folate (P = 0.001), vitamin C (P = 0.008), magnesium (P < 0.001) and potassium (P < 0.001), and had lower plasma vitamin B6 PLP (P = 0.001), vitamin C (P = 0.009) and β-carotene (P = 0.015) concentrations, after adjusting for socio-demographic and health behavioural factors. Compared with the DEN group, the D-DEN group did not have lower nutrient intakes or lower blood nutrient concentrations. Conclusions: Within this sample of older adults, impaired dental status appears to influence food selection, and intake of important nutrients. Future research should focus on developing dental interventions coupled with dietary counselling to encourage the adoption of healthy eating habits in this high-risk population group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]