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Masticatory function and related factors after oral oncological treatment: A 5‐year prospective study
Author(s) -
Groot Reilly J.,
Wetzels JanWillem,
Merkx Matthias A.W.,
Rosenberg Antoine J.W.P.,
Haan Anton F.J.,
Bilt Andries,
Abbink Jan H.,
Speksnijder Caroline M.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
head and neck
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.012
H-Index - 127
eISSN - 1097-0347
pISSN - 1043-3074
DOI - 10.1002/hed.25445
Subject(s) - masticatory force , medicine , dentures , dentistry , bite force quotient , cancer , prospective cohort study , orthodontics
Background Chewing ability is often compromised in patients with oral cancer. The aim of this study was to identify which factors affect masticatory performance in these patients. Methods Patients with primary oral cancer were assessed for up to 5 years after primary treatment. Healthy controls were assessed once. A mixed‐model analysis was performed, with masticatory performance as outcome measure. Results A total of 123 patients were included in the study. Factors positively associated with masticatory performance were number of occlusal units (OU), having functional dentures, and maximum mouth opening (MMO). The impact of tumor location and maximum bite force (MBF) differed per assessment moment. Masticatory performance declined for up to 1 year but recovered at 5 years after treatment. Conclusion Masticatory performance in patients treated for oral cancer is affected by MBF, MMO, number of OU, and dental status. These should be the focus of posttreatment therapy.