Periodontal Health, Bite Force and Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life of Obese Older Adults Using Removable Partial Dentures

TL;DR

Obese older adults using removable partial dentures have worse periodontal health and lower quality of life compared to normal-weight individuals, despite similar improvements in bite force and plaque reduction.

Contribution

The study is the first to evaluate the impact of RPDs on periodontal health, bite force, and quality of life in obese older adults.

Findings

Obese individuals showed higher bleeding on probing and greater bite force at all time points.

Obese individuals had lower oral health-related quality of life compared to normal-weight individuals.

Both groups showed significant plaque reduction after RPD insertion.

Abstract

Obesity is associated with periodontal disease, which compromises chewing by reducing masticatory efficiency. However, little is known about periodontal health and the use of removable prostheses in obese older adults.

To evaluate the effects of removable partial denture (RPD) insertion on periodontal condition, maximum bite force (MBF), and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in obese and normal‐weight older adults.

Edentulous older adults in the maxilla and partially edentulous in the mandible were assigned to obese (71.9 ± 5.0 years; n = 12, 6 women and 6 men) and normal‐weight (69.9 ± 6.7 years; n = 6 women and 6 men) groups. Periodontal parameters (probing depth, clinical attachment loss, gingival recession, bleeding on probing) were measured with William's probe, and plaque was assessed with the modified O'Leary index. MBF was recorded with pressure sensors, and OHRQoL was evaluated with the OHIP‐14. Periodontal parameters and MBF were measured before and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after RPD insertion, while OHRQoL was measured before, and after 6 and 12 months. Data were analysed by repeated‐measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tests (α = 0.05).

Obese individuals showed higher bleeding on probing (p = 0.02) and greater MBF (p = 0.002) at all time points. MBF increased in both groups after 3 months, while OHRQoL remained lower in obese individuals (p = 0.01). Both groups showed significant plaque reduction after RPD insertion (p < 0.05).

Obese older adults wearing RPDs exhibit greater periodontal impairment and poorer OHRQoL, despite similar improvements in MBF and plaque reduction. These findings underscore the need for closer periodontal monitoring and targeted oral health strategies for obese older adults receiving RPDs.

Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials: ReBEC #U1111‐1228‐7273

Impact of removable partial dentures on periodontal health, bite force, and oral health–related quality of life in obese versus normal‐weight older adults. Obese RPD wearers require closer periodontal management due to increased inflammation and lower OHRQoL.

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