Grant: Operating Grant

Tooth loss and sleep problems are common conditions in elders. Tooth loss can influence sleep quality by changing the shape of the lower face and upper airway. While some studies suggest that sleeping without dentures can worsen sleep quality in toothless elders, others suggest the opposite. Consequently, there are currently no evidence-based practice guidelines regarding whether dentures should be used at night, and dentists and doctors do not know how to properly advise their patients on these issues. To address this knowledge gap, over the past 6 years we have carried out research examining the quality of sleep of a group of edentulous elders. In addition, we conducted a pilot study to examine the link between night-time denture wear and sleep. Our results indicate that edentulous elders who wore their dentures at night had high levels of daytime sleepiness. Furthermore, use of dentures at night seemed to increase the risk of apneic events in edentate elders with sleep apnea. While intriguing, these results require confirmation in larger samples. In line with our previous research, the aim of the proposed study is to produce reliable evidence that clinical practice guidelines could be based on and which could be used by dentists and doctors who treat toothless elders. We will enroll 70 toothless elders who will be randomly assigned to wear and not wear their dentures at night for two periods of 30 days. Sleep studies will be conducted at the homes of participants. The participants will also be asked to respond to questions on sleep quality and oral health-related quality of life. Ultimately, the results of this study will help improve the health and quality of life of millions of elders in Canada and around the world.