The effect of different prosthetic restorations on the dietary selection in edentulous patients. A longitudinal study of patients initially treated with optimal complete dentures and finally with tissue-integrated prostheses.

The effect of prosthetic restoration of masticatory ability on dietary selection was evaluated in 23 edentulous patients with denture adaptation problems. The patients were first given optimal complete dentures and then a fixed prosthesis on tissue-integrated implants in the lower jaw. Changes in dietary selection were evaluated from 4-day records obtained before prosthetic treatment and on six occasions up to 78 months after treatment. With the method used, no significant changes in food selection were recorded during the rehabilitation period, except for a slight increase in intake of crisp bread and fresh fruit after treatment with fixed tissue-integrated prostheses in the mandibular jaw. It is concluded that an improved oral function will not in itself lead to a change in dietary selection and that dietary changes probably require professional and individually given dietary advice by a trained dietitian.