Nutrient values and dental diseases in the elderly

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess whether tooth loss and periodontal disease is related to the intake of selected nutrients measured by a precise weighing method, and whether it is related to the amounts of key nutrients found in urine. Methods: We evaluated the number of present teeth and the mean probing attachment level in 57 people, aged 74 years. All food intake was measured by a precise weighing method for three consecutive days. Five macro nutrients, 9 minerals, 12 vitamins, 3 fatty acids, cholesterol and 3 dietary fibers were calculated. Furthermore, the selected components of spot urine were measured. Multiple regression coefficient for each nutrient or component was estimated based on a continuous scale adjusted by gender. Results: The number of present teeth was significantly associated with the presence of 3 macro nutrients (protein, animal protein, ash), 5 minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron), 8 vitamins (D, E, B1, B2, niacin, B6, folic acid, pantothenic acid), and cholesterol. R²s (%) were 11.0-23.1% for macro nutrients, 11.9-17.7% for minerals, 8.6-26.7% for vitamins and 9.7% for cholesterol. Furthermore, the number of present teeth was significantly associated with Ca/Mg ratio (p<0.05, R²=8.6%) and ln {(Ca*iP)/(Mg*Cre)} (p<0.05, R²=8.3%) in the daily urine excretion. The mean probing attachment level was significantly associated with Zn/Cre ratio (p<0.05, R²=11.5%), Ca/Mg ratio (p<0.01, R²=16.4%) and ln {(Ca*iP)/(Mg*Cre)} (p<0.05, R²=11.3%). Conclusion: This study suggests that there is a significant relationship between nutrient intake such as mineral and vitamin from foods and tooth loss. The general bone mineral value in urine is associated with both tooth loss and periodontal disease.