Evaluating the effectiveness of multi-oral muscle function improvement training(MoMFIT) interventions conducted via home visits for a denture-wearing older adult with severe chewing discomfort: a case report

Objectives: Chewing discomfort (CD) is a predictor of poor oral and general health. Herein, we report a case in which we evaluated the effects of multi-oral muscle function improvement training (MoMFIT) for tongue pressure and masticatory function (bite force) conducted via home visits in an older adult. Methods: For 12 weeks, two trained dental hygienists visited the home of a denture-wearing older adult who complained of severe CD to conducted weekly MoMFIT sessions. MoMFIT comprises oral muscle massage, oral stretching exercises, tongue strength and pressure improvement training, and gum chewing exercises. Tongue pressure and bite force were measured at baseline (pre-intervention) and during the 9th and 12th MoMFIT sessions. Tongue pressure was determined as the maximum value after three measurements, and bite force was measured using a Prescale Film. Results: Tongue pressure increased by 58.6% in the 9th session (20.3 kPa) compared with the baseline (12.8 kPa) and by 72.7% in the 12th session (22.1 kPa). Compared with their pre-intervention values, the maximum and average bite forces increased by 58.9% and 12.7%, respectively, in the 12th session. Conclusions: Our data suggest that MoMFIT conducted via home visits can be a useful oral function rehabilitation program for denture-wearing older adults with CD.