Study evaluates connection between oral diseases and cognitive function

Investigators have examined the association between oral diseases and cognitive function among older adults.

In a cross-sectional study published in Oral Diseases, the investigators used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to analyze the bidirectional relationship between periodontitis, dental caries and tooth loss, and reduced cognitive function in 2,508 participants aged 60 years and older on the basis of three domains: memory, processing speed and executive function.

The investigators found that the patients with periodontitis, a higher caries rate or more tooth loss had a greater likelihood of having lower global cognitive scores. For instance, processing speed was linked to all three oral diseases, periodontitis was correlated with memory, and both tooth loss and dental carries were connected with executive function.

The authors asserted, “While we cannot concluded whether the association between oral disease and poor cognitive function is causal, prevention of oral diseases is crucial for a better quality of life.”

Read more: Oral Diseases

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