Assessment Tools for Masticatory Function in Periodontitis Patients: A Scoping Review

Aims: The aim of this scoping review was to map the available evidence on assessment tools for masticatory function for periodontitis patients. It also aimed to examine the methodology of masticatory function assessment and to identify the elements of subjective masticatory function evaluation for periodontitis patients reported in the literature.

Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the methodological guidance for the conduct of scoping reviews. Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus were systematically searched for published studies in English reporting objective or subjective masticatory function assessment in periodontitis patients.

Results: Forty-five studies were included in the analysis. The identified assessment tools for masticatory function were summarized using the terminology described by the recent consensus. Heterogeneity was observed in the approach of assessment, the type(s) and design of assessment tools, and the methods of measurement employed. Most studies utilized only one assessment tool. Seven studies reported composite objective assessment and five studies utilized assessment tools for both objective and subjective masticatory function. Items from the included instruments for subjective masticatory function were analyzed and categorized into seven potentially clinically relevant elements of subjective masticatory function evaluation. Unclear reporting on validation status was found in all included instruments for subjective masticatory function.

Conclusion: Variable methodologies have been reported to assess masticatory function in periodontitis patients. Future research is needed to discern the clinical utility of these assessment tools for masticatory function in periodontitis patients.