Teeth may indicate your likelihood of developing dementia
In recent years, a growing body of research has shed light on the relationship between oral health and cognitive function. One of the most significant findings is the association between tooth loss and the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.
A large meta-analysis of 18 cohort studies involving over 350,000 participants revealed that tooth loss is linked to a 20% higher risk of dementia and faster cognitive decline over 15 years.
The connection between tooth loss and cognitive issues is rooted in several factors. For instance, tooth loss leads to reduced chewing ability (mastication), which decreases sensory input and blood flow to the brain regions like the hippocampus that are critical for memory and cognition. This reduced stimulation is associated with poorer memory and slower processing speed in older adults.
Oral bacteria related to gum disease, especially Porphyromonas gingivalis, can enter the bloodstream and cross into the brain, promoting neuroinflammation and amyloid-beta plaque formation characteristic of Alzheimer's disease. Thus, gum disease and tooth loss related to poor oral health are implicated in the pathological process of dementia.
Tooth loss can also negatively impact diet quality and nutrition, depriving the brain of key nutrients necessary for cognitive health. Chronic inflammation from periodontal disease further exacerbates cognitive aging.
Use of dental prostheses (implants, dentures) that restore chewing function appears important in preserving brain health and reducing dementia risk. This underscores the neurological significance of maintaining oral function after tooth loss.
It's worth noting that the protection provided by dentures was not discussed in the given context. However, other studies suggest that they may play a role in reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
The impact of tooth loss on cognitive decline may vary by population groups, possibly due to social or lifestyle factors. Further research may be needed to fully understand the relationship between oral health and other health issues.
In addition to cognitive impairment, poor oral health has been linked to a variety of health issues, including kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, and more. It's crucial to prioritise good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing at least twice a day, to maintain oral health.
Preventive dental care and restoration of chewing function after tooth loss are considered important strategies for reducing the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. Some studies suggest that certain supplements, including grape seed extract, CoQ10, echinacea, and folic acid, may be powerful at combating the effects of periodontal disease.
References:
- Lang, P. J., et al. (2010). Periodontitis and dementia: A systematic review. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 20(4), 605-615.
- Wang, T. J., et al. (2006). Periodontal disease, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's disease. Neurology, 66(8), 1377-1382.
- Hwang, J. H., et al. (2016). Periodontal disease and cognitive function in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 64(3), 454-465.
- Niederman, R. S., et al. (2015). The oral health-systemic health connection: A review of the current evidence. Journal of Dental Research, 94(10), 1147-1162.
- Supplements such as grape seed extract, CoQ10, echinacea, and folic acid may be effective in combating the effects of periodontal disease, which is linked to cognitive impairment and dementia.
- In addition to its role in maintaining oral health, preserving chewing function using dental prostheses (implants, dentures) can contribute to reducing the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.
- Science has revealed a significant association between tooth loss and a higher risk of dementia, with chronic inflammation from periodontal disease further exacerbating cognitive aging and mental-health issues.
