Community Oral Care of the Aged in JAPAN, Especially '8020'--Its Concept, Development and Action

The article described a survey, which was undertaken in Tokoname City, Aichi prefecture since 1992. To use a developed score which called (8020) as the main objective of this study as well as good oral health promotion. The sample of the study included that 118 subjects who were with 80 years and older. 59 subjects with more than 20 teeth and other 59 subject with less than 19 teeth. The dietary and nutritional survey contained 105 subjects who were 80 years and older. 54 subjects with more than 20 teeth and other 51 subject with less than 19 teeth. Results as shown that compared with the control group, subjects with 20 or more teeth and lived in a traditional life style they did not show a preference for sugary snacks and took snacks on limited occasions between meals in primary school. Theirs gums were barely swollen and did not lose lower anterior teeth and molars at 20-60 years of age as well as good tooth alignment at the age of 20. This group also tended to have a lower intake of energy and carbohydrates compared with the control, although no differences were observed in the intake of other nutrients. Their diet was much more varied. They more often consumed fish and vegetables than the control. They also ate various kinds of foods compared with the control with less than 20 teeth. It was concluded that subjects having more than 20 teeth had better habitual dietary attitudes through their lives and consumed a lower intake of food energy with a diet rich in fish and vegetables. Therefore, the article suggested 8020 campaign (having more than 20 teeth at the age of 80) is a health promotion activity concerning the oral health.