RESUMEN
PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to investigate changes of diet and nutrient adequacy between complete denture wearers with their existing dentures and those with new dentures. METHODS: After obtained their written informed consent 30 patients who visited Nihon University School of Dentistry at Matsudo Affiliated Hospital from March 2004 to November 2005 were asked to record their 3 consecutive day's meals and to take a picture of them. Furthermore, foods which they can eat with their dentures were examined the questionnaire developed by Hirai. Referring to the obtained records and pictures, one dietitian interviewed to confirm the exact intakes of meals. In addition, the masticatory ability was calculated using the questionnaire. The nutrient adequacy and masticatory score determined at the time of the first and second survey were examined by repeated-measures ANOVA. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULT: The total intake of energy and nutrients was almost over 100% in both the groups. However, no statistically significant difference was obtained. The masticatory score with the existing and new denture were 66.1+/-18.5 and 58.3+/-19.9, respectively. The score increased significantly in the new denture group when compared with that of the existing denture group. CONCLUSION: The self-evaluation of the masticatory function improved after the switch from the old to new dentures.