Evaluation and Implementation of Malnutrition Screening Tools in Dental Settings

Malnutrition Screening in Dental Offices

Primary Investigator
G
Grace Gomez Felix Gomez

Primary Investigator

Evaluation and Implementation of Malnutrition Screening Tools in Dental Settings
Recruiting
50 years - 100 years
All
Phase N/A
160 participants needed
3 Locations

Brief description of study

The aim of the research study is to compare the performance of the malnutrition risk screening tools with a nutritional assessment performed by a registered dietitian on individuals wearing either both or one of the complete dentures.

Detailed description of study

  • This is a one-time clinical observational research study conducted at Indiana University School of Dentistry
  • Complete a three-day diet record for two weekdays and one weekend before the study visit
  • During the study visit, Collection of demographic information, current medical history, dental history, medication list, food allergies, supplements, number of annual medical/dental visits, and anthropometrics (height, weight measurements, mid-arm circumference, calf circumference, and BMI calculation will be collected
  • During the study visit, you will complete four digitized malnutrition screening (MS) tools. Nutrition Screening Initiative (NSI) has 10 questions, MNA-SF has 6 questions, MNA-LF has 12 questions, and MST has 2 questions.
  • Complete four feedback questionnaires after completing each digitized tool
  • Undergo a physical examination by a registered dietitian for muscle mass loss, fat storage and loss, energy intake, retention of fluid or edema, functional capacity, and signs of macronutrient and micronutrient deficiencies
  • Total time for the study: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • $60 payment (Advarra payment card)

Eligibility of study

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:

  • Conditions: Healthy, Maxillary and/or mandibular removable complete dentures, Removable overdentures
  • Age: 50 years - 100 years
  • Gender: All

Inclusion Criteria

  • Willing to read and sign an informed consent.
  • Have the time to spend about one hour and 50 minutes (in person clinical visit)
  • Adults aged ≥ 50 years and over and who wear maxillary and/or mandibular removable complete dentures, or removable overdentures (denture wearers).
  • Eligible participants could have a partial denture if they have only a maxillary or mandibular complete denture.
  • Willing to complete basic demographic information, undergo height and weight measurements, and provide medical, dental, surgical, and medication information
  • Willing to undergo a head-to-toe nutrition-focused physical examination (NFPE) done by a registered dietitian
  • Willing to follow study procedures which include completing four digitized malnutrition risk screening questionnaires or surveys.
  • Willing to complete 4 feedback questionnaires regarding their perception of the use of the 4 MS tools.

Exclusion Criteria

  • Presence of only partial dentures without the presence of at least one complete denture.
  • Edentulous patients without any dentures or never had dentures.
  • Edentulous patients who received dentures and are not wearing them
  • Participants participating in a nutritional intervention study such as a clinical trial or dietary counseling.
  • Patients who have a current terminal illness such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease,  dementia, post-major gastrointestinal surgery (gastric bypass), Crohn’s’ disease, ulcerative colitis, end-stage renal disease (ESRD) with dialysis, or hospitalized for more than 2 days within a month of the clinical visit.

This study investigates the use of malnutrition screening tools in dental practices for adults who wear dentures. The purpose is to understand how these tools work in a dental setting. This is an observational study, which means researchers will observe participants without changing their treatment. Participants will include adults who wear dentures and are identified from dental records or referred by their providers.

Participants will have their demographic information, medical and dental history, and physical measurements taken. They will complete four different malnutrition screening tools and provide feedback on these tools. The study will also include a physical examination to check for signs of malnutrition, and participants will review a three-day food record with the researchers.

  • Who can participate: Adults 50 years and older who wear dentures can participate. They must complete questionnaires and a physical exam, and not have terminal illnesses or be in other nutritional studies.
  • Study details: Participants will complete four malnutrition screening tools and provide feedback on their usability. They will also undergo a physical examination to evaluate for signs of malnutrition. A placebo is not used in this study.
Updated on 27 Aug 2026. Study ID: 27732

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