A study was conducted to ascertain if reduced masticatory function can predict gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal dysphagia in patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

A total of 179 adult patients who were referred for elective upper gastrointestinal endoscopy participated in this cross-sectional study. Prior to the endoscopy evaluation, a dentist performed an oral examination and categorized the chewing function in to three levels - normal, regular, and reduced. Patients filled questionnaires for evaluation of GERD (heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia), xerostomia, and mastication (normal, regular, and reduced).

• Overall, 168 patients were analyzed (age 49.8 ± 15.5 years).
• Forty six had reduced masticatory function (27.4%) while 122 had regular/normal mastication (72.6%).
• Reduced mastication was found to be linked to GERD [PR = 1.38 (95%CI 1.12 - 1.70)], after adjusting for age, and it was associated with esophageal dysphagia [PR = 2.03 (95%CI 1.02 - 4.04)], after adjusting for age and xerostomia.

In conclusion, among patients referred for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, reduced masticatory function defined by a dentist may serve as a risk factor for GERD and esophageal dysphagia.

Source: Pauletti RN, Callegari-Jacques SM, Fornari L, et al. Reduced masticatory function predicts gastroesophageal reflux disease and esophageal dysphagia in patients referred for upper endoscopy: A cross-sectional study. Dig Liver Dis. 2022 Mar;54(3):331-335.