“A Coalition Between Nutritional and Dental Health Status Amongst the Geriatric Population in Uttarakhand State”

Abstract

Background: Impaired oral health has been suggested to affect the food selection, hence making people susceptible to malnutrition.

Objectives: The current study was done to assess the correlation of dental health and nutritional status in the elderly population of Uttarakhand.

Material and Method: In the Indian state of Uttarakhand, a community-based cross-sectional survey was carried out in 2022–2024. Using a population proportionate to size sampling technique, 200 senior citizens from several Uttarakhand cities were enlisted. Anthropometric measures and sociodemographic profile data were gathered. To evaluate nutritional status, the Mini Nutritional Assessment scale (MNA) and body mass index (BMI) were computed. Through a physical examination, a qualified specialist evaluated the state of oral health. Data on dietary intake was gathered using the 24-hour dietary recall technique.

Results: The underweight (as calculated by BMI) and malnutrition (as measured by MNA) rate was greater in subjects who were totally edentulous, had difficulty in chewing, and did not use dentures. In comparison with subjects who did not use dentures, the malnutrition rate was significantly lower than subjects wearing dentures.

Conclusion: Among older adults in Uttarakhand, poor dietary condition was substantially correlated with dental health status. In order to improve the nutritional state of the senior population, restorative dental healthcare services should be improved.