Journal of Korean Dental Science

Korean Academy of Dental Science (대한치의학회)
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Age-Related Difference in Oral Motor Function and Masticatory Performance in Healthy Korean Older Adults

  • Ji-Hyeon Oh (Department of Advanced General Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University) ;
  • Seo Young Kim (Department of Advanced General Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University) ;
  • Bock-Young Jung (Department of Advanced General Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University)
  • Received : 2025.08.26
  • Accepted : 2025.10.16
  • Published : 2025.12.31
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Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess age-related differences in oral motor function using both objective and subjective measures and to identify factors associated with masticatory performance (MP), oral diadochokinesis (ODK), and tongue pressure (TP) in older adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 227 healthy older adults aged ≥65 years participated in this study and were classified into Group 1 (Gr1; 65 - 74 years, n=109) and Group 2 (Gr2; ≥75 years, n=118). The objective assessments included MP, ODK, TP, bite force (BF), occluding area (OA), and the Eichner index. The subjective assessments included the Food Intake Ability (FIA) questionnaire, Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP)-14, and Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (KMMSE). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to examine the variables associated with MP, ODK and TP. Results: ODK, TP and KMMSE scores significantly decreased in the ≥75-year age group, whereas MP did not significantly differ between the groups. In Gr1, MP was associated with OA, ODK (/pa/, /ta/), BF, and FIA. In Gr2, MP was associated with ODK (/pa/,/ta/,/ka/) and BF. In Gr2, TP was associated with OA, ODK, BF, and the KMMSE. ODK was additionally associated with the OHIP-14 and KMMSE only in Gr2. Conclusion: Although both groups maintained sufficient masticatory function, older adults aged ≥75 years showed marked declines in oral motor and cognitive function. These findings emphasize the importance of age-specific assessment and early intervention to maintain oral health and functional independence in older adults.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

This research was supported by a National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korean government (MSIT) (grant number 2020R1A2C2004893) and by a faculty research grant from the Yonsei University College of Dentistry (No. 6-2023-0015).

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