Gender-specific associations of malocclusion traits with oral health-related quality of life in a Finnish adult population

Oral Health Differences Between Middle-Aged and Older Adults in South Korea

INTRODUCTION AND AIMS

The oral health characteristics of middle-aged and older adults exhibit variations. This study identifies the various factors associated with oral health among middle-aged and older adults through a subgroup analysis by age group of data representative of the South Korean population.

METHODS

We examined influencing factors: demographic, socioeconomic, dental, physical attributes, psychological, and mental attributes. Oral health was assessed using the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index. The participants were divided into two groups: those under 65 years of age (middle-aged) and those over 65 years of age (older adults). We used multiple linear regression analysis and dominance analysis to determine the dominant factors associated with oral health.

RESULTS

A total of 6369 participants were aged 69.2 ± 9.8 years on average, and 57.5% were women. Dominance analysis revealed that lower educational levels and activity difficulty caused by diseases were significantly associated with both groups. Moreover, depressive symptoms were the foremost adverse factor linked to oral health in the middle-aged (P < .001, standardized beta [β] = -4.30, general dominance index [GDI] = 19.00) and older (P < .001, β = -0.30, GDI = 10.70) adults. The number of teeth exhibited the most positive association with oral health in both middle-aged (P < .001, β = 0.20, GDI = 5.30) and older (P < .001, β = 0.23, GDI = 7.40) adults. However, cognitive function, dental visits, body mass index, severe pain, functional limitations, and cognitive function exhibited distinct patterns between the age groups.

CONCLUSION

Depressive symptoms and the number of teeth significantly influence oral health in middle-aged and older adults, though the impact varies by age. These findings stress the importance of tailored strategies considering age-specific attributes for effective oral health improvement.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Enhancing oral health requires healthcare providers to prioritize monitoring age-specific risk factors. Further, educational plans should highlight the importance of preventive oral care and regular dental visits.

Feasibility of occlusal plane in predicting the changes in anteroposterior mandibular position: a comprehensive analysis using deep learning-based three-dimensional models

BACKGROUND

A comprehensive analysis of the occlusal plane (OP) inclination in predicting anteroposterior mandibular position (APMP) changes is still lacking. This study aimed to analyse the relationships between inclinations of different OPs and APMP metrics and explore the feasibility of OP inclination in predicting changes in APMP.

METHODS

Overall, 115 three-dimensional (3D) models were reconstructed using deep learning-based cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) segmentation, and their accuracy in supporting cusps was compared with that of intraoral scanning models. The anatomical landmarks of seven OPs and three APMP metrics were identified, and their values were measured on the sagittal reference plane. The receiver operating characteristic curves of inclinations of seven OPs in distinguishing different anteroposterior skeletal patterns and correlations between inclinations of these OPs and APMP metrics were calculated and compared. For the OP inclination with the highest area under the curve (AUC) values and correlation coefficients, the regression models between this OP inclination and APMP metrics were further calculated.

RESULTS

The deviations in supporting cusps between deep learning-based and intraoral scanning models were < 0.300 mm. The improved functional OP (IFOP) inclination could distinguish different skeletal classification determinations (AUC Class I VS Class II = 0.693, AUC Class I VS Class III = 0.763, AUC Class II VS Class III = 0.899, all P values < 0.01) and the AUC value in skeletal Classes II and III determination was statistically higher than the inclinations of other OPs (all P values < 0.01). Moreover, the IFOP inclination showed statistical correlations with APMP metrics (rAPDI = -0.557, rANB = 0.543, rAF-BF = 0.731, all P values < 0.001) and had the highest correlation coefficients among all OP inclinations (all P values < 0.05). The regression analysis models of IFOP inclination and APMP metrics were yAPDI = -0.917x + 91.144, yANB = 0.395x + 0.292, and yAF-BF = 0.738x - 2.331.

CONCLUSIONS

Constructing the OP using deep learning-based 3D models from CBCT data is feasible. IFOP inclination could be used in predicting the APMP changes. A steeper IFOP inclination corresponded to a more retrognathic mandibular posture.

Orthodontic Treatment Need and Its Relation to Gender, Oral Hygiene, and Age Range in a Mexican Population

Introduction Malocclusion, a prevalent oral health concern, significantly impacts both functional abilities and psychosocial well-being. The Dental Aesthetic Index (DAI) is widely used to assess malocclusion severity and orthodontic treatment needs. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of orthodontic treatment needs based on the DAI in a Mexican population, considering factors such as gender, oral hygiene, and age range. Materials and methods This retrospective observational study analyzed 639 patient records from the Orthodontics and Dentomaxillofacial Orthopedics postgraduate program at the Autonomous University of San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, Mexico. The DAI was used to assess malocclusion severity, and patients were classified into four categories based on their scores. Data on gender, oral hygiene, and age were also collected and analyzed. Results The results showed no significant association between DAI levels and gender, oral hygiene, or age range. However, a significant association was found between missing teeth and higher DAI scores (OR = 8.9), maxillary irregularity (OR = 8.6), and open bite (OR = 4.9). The prevalence of severe malocclusion (DAI ≥ 36) was notably high, affecting over 50% of the study population. Discussion The findings align with previous studies that highlight the influence of structural irregularities such as open bite and maxillary irregularities on severe malocclusion. While no significant associations were found with gender, oral hygiene, or age, the high prevalence of severe malocclusion underscores the need for early orthodontic intervention in Mexican populations. Conclusion This study demonstrates a high prevalence of severe malocclusion in a Mexican population and highlights the importance of addressing structural dental irregularities to prevent long-term complications. These findings emphasize the need for accessible orthodontic care and early screening programs.

Changes in occlusal relationships observed using an intraoral scanner in patients with an acquired open bite: A case report

PATIENTS

This case report describes a procedure for assessing changes in occlusal relationships in patients with acquired open bites due to temporomandibular joint disease using an intraoral scanner (IOS). A digital impression was made using the IOS at the initial visit. Subsequent impressions were made every 6 months using the IOS and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT). Standard triangulated language (STL) image files of two digital impressions at different points in time were superimposed, including the occlusal relationship with reference to the maxillary dentition. Finally, three-dimensional (3D) changes in the occlusal relationship over time were evaluated.

DISCUSSION

In Case 1, the superimposed STL image indicated almost no evident deviation of the mandible. Therefore, an orthodontic treatment was initiated. In contrast, in cases 2 and 3, where changes in the occlusal relationship continued, secondary treatment was postponed and patients continued to be monitored periodically. In case 3, even though left condyle resorption was progressive, the degree of open bite on the right side improved after 6 months. However, the open bite continued to progress for another 6 months despite the stability of the condyle.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in the condylar shape observed using imaging may not always reflect changes in the occlusal relationship. In addition to changes in the condyles and eminences of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), changes in the occlusal relationships of patients with acquired open bite should be evaluated using an intraoral scanner.

The relation of temporomandibular disorders with oral health-related quality of life in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the association between temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in an adult population.

METHODS

The data included 1,768 adults 46 years of age in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (NFBC1966) study. The symptoms, signs and diagnoses of TMD were assessed using a modified protocol of the Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) and validated questionnaires. OHRQoL was measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). Associations of TMD and OHRQoL were evaluated with χ2 -test and Fisher's exact test.

RESULTS

In females, pain-related TMD signs and diagnoses associated significantly with prevalence of OHIP total and all dimensions, whereas in joint-related TMD, psychological dimensions showed the strongest association. Males with pain- or joint-related TMD, the most impaired dimension was physical pain.

CONCLUSION

Pain-related TMD seems to associate more strongly with lower OHRQoL than joint-related TMD especially in females.

Gender differences in the association between malocclusion traits and oral health-related quality of life in Finnish adults

We aimed to evaluate the gender-specific associations of malocclusion traits with oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among Finnish adults. Data were obtained from the Health 2000 Survey, Finland. Included participants (n = 3993) were ≥30 years old with OHRQoL and occlusion data. OHRQoL was measured using the 14-item Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). OHIP-14 severity mean score, prevalence of impacts, and means of seven dimensions were outcomes. Explanatory variables were any malocclusion trait, increased overjet, negative overjet, open bite, deep bite, and crossbite/scissor bite. Logistic (prevalence) and cumulative (severity) regression models were adjusted for age, decayed teeth, deep periodontal pocket, occluding pairs, orthodontic treatment, and self-perceived health. Gender modified the association between any malocclusion trait and OHRQoL, with the association being stronger in females. Females without any malocclusion trait (OR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.14-2.28) or without crossbite/scissor bite (OR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.16-2.43) had better OHRQoL (lower prevalence) than those with malocclusions. Males without increased overjet (OR 1.50, 95% CI = 1.04-2.17) had lower mean OHIP-14 severity score than males with increased overjet, after adjustments. The association between psychological and physical disability and malocclusion traits was different between males and females. Gender differences in the impact of malocclusion traits should be considered when assessing orthodontic treatment need.

Implications of occlusal plane in diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion

Occlusal plane (OP) is one of the essential factors affecting craniofacial morphology and function. The OP not only assists in diagnosing malocclusion but also serves as an important reference for making treatment plans. Patients with different types of malocclusions have different forms of OP. Compared with patients with standard skeletal facial type, the occlusal plane of patients with skeletal class Ⅱ and high angle is steeper, while that of patients with skeletal class Ⅲ and low angle is more even. In orthodontic treatment, adjusting and controlling the OP can promote the normal growth and development of the mandible in most patients with malocclusion during the early stage of growth, while causing favorable rotation of the mandible in some adults with mild-to-moderate malocclusion. For moderate-to-severe malocclusion, the OP rotation by orthodontic-orthognathic treatment can achieve better long-term stability. This article reviews the evolution of the definition of OP and its implications for diagnosing and the guiding treatment of malocclusion.

The associations of dental aesthetics, oral health-related quality of life and satisfaction with aesthetics in an adult population

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate the gender-specific associations between dental aesthetics, oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), and satisfaction with dental aesthetics in an adult population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study population consisted of 1780 individuals (822 males and 958 females) from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (NFBC1966). Dental aesthetics were evaluated from digital 3D dental models using the Aesthetic Component (AC) of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). Layperson and orthodontist panels evaluated the dental aesthetics of a smaller sample (n = 100). OHRQoL was measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) questionnaire. Satisfaction with dental aesthetics was asked with one separate question. Gender-specific analyses consisted of Mann-Whitney U-tests and Spearman's correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

More than half of the population had an aesthetically acceptable occlusion, and most of the individuals were satisfied with the aesthetics. The most severe aesthetic impairments were associated with the psychological dimensions of OHIP-14. There were significant but weak associations of AC and satisfaction with aesthetics, and satisfaction with aesthetics and OHRQoL. Significant gender differences were found, men having higher mean AC scores but women reporting lower OHRQoL.

CONCLUSION

At the population level, most of the individuals were satisfied with their aesthetics, despite different dental aesthetic conditions. The most severe aesthetic impairments were associated with decreased psychological well-being, women reporting more impacts compared to men.

Gastric emptying rate of a solid meal in patients with anterior open bite malocclusion: A preliminary study

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to investigate the relationship between anterior open bite (AOB) malocclusion and digestion by evaluating mastication and gastric emptying (GE) of a solid meal.

Material and Methods:

We recruited 26 female participants and divided them into two groups according to their occlusion status: The control group with normal occlusion (n = 11; age: 25.2 ± 2.8 years; and body mass index [BMI]: 21.1 ± 1.9 kg/m2) and the AOB group with AOB malocclusion (n = 15; age: 23.2 ± 5.5 years; BMI: 21.0 ± 1.6 kg/m2). GE, chewing, and occlusion were assessed simultaneously. A food questionnaire survey was also administered on the same day.

Results:

A significant positive correlation was noted between open bite and the occlusal analysis findings. Negative correlations were found between the food questionnaire score and both the open bite and occlusal analysis findings, which confirmed that AOB affects mastication. However, no significant difference in the GE rate parameters was observed between the two groups.

Conclusion:

Adaptive mechanisms may have a compensatory effect on the GE rate. However, the lack of tooth contact in the anterior occlusal region resulted in reduced masticatory ability. Orthodontic treatment should thus be considered, regardless of the presence of digestive problems, to improve mastication.

Oral-Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) and Anterior Open Bite in Adult Patients: A Case-Control Study

Oral-health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) is defined as the impact of oral health on activities of daily living. Malocclusions are a public health problem with a high prevalence. Different studies have concluded that malocclusions negatively affect OHRQoL in patients of all ages. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of having an anterior open bite on the OHRQoL of adult patients. Materials and Methods: A case-control study (1:1) was carried out with a sample size of 80 adults at the University of Salamanca in 2021. The case group (n = 40) was made up of patients with an anterior open bite, and the control group (n = 40) contained patients without an anterior open bite. OHRQoL was assessed using the Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire. The influences of gender and age on the OHRQoL of the patients were also analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences in gender or age between the case and control groups. An anterior open bite was not found to influence the OHRQoL of adult patients. Age was not shown to significantly influence OHRQoL. Female patients with an anterior open bite had higher scores in the handicap domain of the OHIP-14 questionnaire compared with male patients (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Anterior open bite can influence the OHRQoL of orthodontic patients. Gender can be considered an influencing factor.

Malocclusion severity and its associations with oral health-related quality of life in an adult population

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate malocclusion severity and its associations with oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among middle-aged adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study material consisted of 1786 subjects from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 who attended dental and oral examination as part of the 46-year-old follow-up study. Malocclusion severity was assessed using the Dental Health Component (DHC) of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) and the Peer Assessment Rating index (PAR) from digital 3D dental models. Participants also answered a questionnaire including the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and a question on their satisfaction with occlusal function. Differences between malocclusion severity groups were evaluated for both genders separately. For adjusted models, multivariate Poisson regression models were conducted.

RESULTS

In this study population, 31.3% had great or very great orthodontic treatment need according to DHC and the mean PAR total score was 22.05. The most severe malocclusions were associated with OHRQoL, especially the psychosocial and handicap dimensions, and satisfaction with occlusal function. There was a significant difference between genders, men having more severe malocclusion but women reporting more OHRQoL impacts.

CONCLUSION

One third of the study population were considered to have severe malocclusion. There was an association between malocclusion severity and OHRQoL in adult population, particularly in women.