Objectives : The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between the statusand necessity of dental prosthesis and mastication function in the Korean elderly.
Methods : This study investigated 4,557 elderly people aged over 65 in the 5th Korea NationalHealth and Nutrition Examination Survey(2010-2012). Frequency analysis, χ2 test, and logisticregression analysis were used.
Results : Those aged over 75 complained of greater discomfort in mastication function thanthose from 65 to 74, and it was statistically significant(p<0.001). Mastication discomfort was notso significant in those with higher education and higher income(p<0.001). Those who did notuse prosthesis tended to have better mastication function(p<0.001). Denture users complainedof mastication discomfort when they used it(p<0.001).
Conclusions : This study verified the relationship between the discomfort in mastication andrelated factors, and will provide the basic data for the access to dental clinic services.