Reduced masticatory function predicts gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal dysphagia in patients referred for upper endoscopy: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

The role of mastication on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is unknown.

AIMS

To assess whether reduced masticatory function predicts GERD and esophageal dysphagia in patients investigated with upper endoscopy.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 179 adult patients referred for elective upper gastrointestinal endoscopy agreed to participate. Before endoscopy, an expert dentist performed an oral examination and scored chewing function in three levels (normal, regular, and reduced). Patients replied questionnaires for assessment of GERD (heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia), xerostomia, and mastication (normal, regular, and reduced). Poor chewing was defined when either oral examination or mastication questionnaire rated the chewing function as reduced. Associations of mastication with GERD and dysphagia were estimated using Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Eleven patients were excluded. Among 168 analyzed (aging 49.8 ± 15.5 years; 58.9% women), 46 had reduced masticatory function (27.4%), and 122 had regular/normal mastication (72.6%). Reduced mastication was associated with GERD [PR = 1.38 (95%CI 1.12 - 1.70)], adjusting for age, and with esophageal dysphagia [PR = 2.03 (95%CI 1.02 - 4.04)], adjusting for age and xerostomia.

CONCLUSIONS

In outpatients referred for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, reduced masticatory function defined by an expert dentist may be a risk factor for GERD and esophageal dysphagia.