Association between the number of remaining teeth and need for long-term care or support needs among generally healthy older adults in Japan

Abstract Objectives: Japan has the largest super-aged population worldwide. As long-term care and support for community-dwelling older adults have considerable healthcare and socioeconomic implications, population-based projects are exploring strategies for prevention and early detection of physical and cognitive decline. The Frail Kenshin health checkup program of Kobe city includes citizens aged 64 or 65 years. Materials and methods: Overall, 1508 subjects of the program between August 2017 and March 2018 were included. Frail Kenshin data were analyzed to examine associations between the number of remaining teeth with Cognitive Functional Instrument Self and European Quality of Life Five Dimension questionnaire scores, and near future long-term care need certification. The number of teeth was identified from the Frail Check data; mastication scores and number of chewable foods were also assessed.Results: Reduced numbers of remaining teeth were significantly associated with various measures of general frailty, including motor function, oral function, prevention of seclusion, memory, mental health, mastication scores, total number of chewable foods, and body mass index (p<0.001, all). They were also associated with decreased calf and standing up test scores, worsening in European Quality of Life Five Dimension visual analogue scale scores, degree of mobility, and regular activities (p<0.001, all). Decreased numbers of remaining teeth were associated with increased frequency of long-term care or support need certification (p<0.001). Conclusion: Loss of teeth appears to be associated with long-term care or support needs among community-dwelling older individuals. Clinical relevance: Community-dwelling older adults with loss of teeth require careful monitoring for long-term care needs.