Discuss the role of tooth loss and gum disease in maintenance of nutritional status

Answer 1

?Regular dental care over a lifetime protects against tooth loss and gum disease, which are common in old age. These conditions make chewing difficult or painful. Dentures are less effective than natural teeth, and inefficient chewing can cause choking. Inefficient chewing leaves larger pieces of food moving from the stomach into the small intestine, thus limiting enzyme accessibility. Simple changes in food texture might improve chewing efficiency and benefit digestion. People with tooth loss, gum disease, and ill-fitting dentures tend to limit their food selections to soft foods. If foods such as corn on the cob and apples are replaced by creamed corn and applesauce, then nutrition status may not be greatly affected. However, when food groups are eliminated and variety is limited, poor nutrition follows.