It is commonly known that keeping an active social life and staying mentally engaged can help prevent dementia. However, the recent research published in the international journal Ageing Research Review by Dr. Chia-Shu Lin at the Faculty of Dentistry of National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), Dr. Ta-Chung Chen at the Stomatology Department of the Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Director Jong-Ling Fuh at the Neurological Institute of the Taipei Veterans General Hospital, the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, and Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam in Netherland indicates that there might be an essential relationship between severe periodontal disease, extensive hypodontia, and dementia, which is supported by evidence from various studies.
According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, there are over 300,000 people with dementia in Taiwan, with 96% of them being over the age of 65 [1]. Dementia is not simply a result of aging but rather a disease of various types. Alzheimer’s disease is the most commonly known type, which affects cognitive function and alters personality and behavior. Despite previous research indicating a connection between oral health and dementia risk, the exact correlation remains uncertain.
Research Evidence Indicates Strong Association Between Severe Oral Health Issues and Cognitive Impairment
This latest study reviewed 28 studies analyzing the connection between oral health and cognitive function disorder within five years. It was published in a leading geriatric medicine journal in January of this year and featured in Newsweek in the U.S.A. The majority of research focused on the relationship between periodontal disease, oral microorganisms, and Alzheimer’s disease. The findings suggest that cognitive function disorder is more closely associated with severe oral health problems, such as extensive hypodontia and severe periodontal disease.
However, there is currently no clear consensus on various oral health concerns, including the masticatory function of the elderly. Furthermore, evidence for the correlation between oral health and the prevention of early or mild dementia remains inconclusive and requires further investigation.
The lead author of this study, Dr. Chia-Shu Lin, indicates that a considerable disagreement arises with exploring oral health and brain cognitive function disorder. Specifically, issues such as severe periodontal disease or extensive hypodontia appear to be the most closely linked to the development of dementia. However, Dr. Lin is quick to caution that correlation does not necessarily imply causation. For instance, simply wearing dentures or increasing chewing activity cannot be relied upon to prevent dementia or enhance cognitive function, despite any potential relationship with hypodontia. Therefore, further studies are required to establish the validity of these possible connections. In fact, patients with dementia often experience a gradual decline in their ability to take care of themselves, including maintaining good oral hygiene through brushing and gargling. As the disease progresses, their oral health may deteriorate even further.
According to Dr. Lin, while the causation between oral health and cognitive function remains unclear, the correlation is significant. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of this connection. “We hope to raise awareness among the public about the crucial link between oral health and cognitive well-being. Oral health should play a vital role in caring for the elderly,” Dr. Lin emphasized.
[1] Data Source: Ministry of Health and Welfare
Complete Thesis: https://www.nycu.edu.tw/nycu/en/app/news/doc?module=headnews&detailNo=1209381431382380544&type=s