Relationship between texture perception and oral function: A preliminary study in young, healthy adults.

Background: Oral frailty, characterised by reduced oral function, is associated with systemic health issues in older adults. Although the criteria for diminished oral function often focus on motor and secretory abilities, texture perception also plays a crucial role in health due to its impact on food intake and palatability.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between thickness discrimination ability (TDA) and oral motor and secretory functions in healthy young individuals.