ABSTRACT
Aim: This study aims to compare masticatory performance between total prosthesis users and individuals with partial or total natural dentition to evaluate masticatory capacity and efficiency in individuals in Araraquara/SP. Material and Methods: 31 individuals between 55 and 99 years old were evaluated, both genders, frequent users of Dentistry Clinic of the University of Araraquara (Uniara) and residents at Recanto Feliz, in the same town. A cognitive evaluation was carried out through a mini mental state examination in order to define inclusion criteria to individuals of sample. Next, a questionnaire was applied, with pre-coded questions on the masticatory capacity and an efficiency test, through the grinding test, where patients received 5 almonds to be grinded and not swallowed. The fragments were poured in granulometric sieves (2mm, 4mm and 4,75mm) to analyze the food fragmentation under tap water. Participants were divided into 3 groups: G1 (n=13) superior and inferior total prosthesis user, or total or partial edentulous; G2 (n=4) Total prosthesis user and/or partial removal prosthesis user (PRP) or partial dentition; and G3 (n=14) complete or partial dentition or PRP user. Results: Efficiency test results showed the G1 patients presented good efficiency and 8 were considered poor; G2 patients were all classified as poor, and G3 patients were 9 poor, 2 regular and 3 good. Regarding to the questionnaires, most patients from the 3 groups felt impossibility to masticate some food, and need special preparation to chew. On take more time to masticate when compared to other people, all patients from G2 answered affirmatively, while only 46.1% G1 and 50% G3 gave the same answer.Just 15.4% G1 and 28.6% G2 are not satisfied with the tame they take.About avoid in front of other people, most patients from G2 and G3 use to, however, 69.2% G1 answered negatively. Regarding to the masticatory capacity self-evaluation, they answered regular. Conclusions: Masticatory efficiency of people using removable prosthesis did not achieve the ideal of a complete dentition. However, it is still better than in individuals with partial dentition or not rehabilitated.