Gum disease and dental health affect brain size in old age
Researchers have found a correlation between dental health, gum health and the development of Alzheimer's disease.Japanese scientists have found a correlation between brain health and oral health. The analysis showed a correlation between gum disease, tooth loss and a decrease in the brain's hippocampus. This is an area that is involved in memory function. Disruptions in its function are linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
There were 172 participants in the study, with an average age of 67. At the beginning of the trial, none of them had memory problems. Researchers gave all participants dental exams and memory tests, as well as an MRI to measure hippocampal volume. A similar study was conducted four years later.
Upon re-examination, the researchers noticed that some participants had developed a mild gum infection, while others faced severe disease. In both groups, the researchers found decreased hippocampal volume.
After adjusting for age, the researchers found that in people with mild gum disease (the formation of several pockets up to 3 mm deep), the loss of each tooth was equivalent to a decrease in the hippocampus corresponding to a year of aging brain. In people with severe gum disease, 1.3 years of aging.
Tooth loss and gum disease, which is inflammation of the tissue around the teeth that can cause gum shriveling and loose teeth, are very common, so assessing the potential link to dementia is incredibly important. Our study suggests that these conditions may play a role in the health of the area of the brain that controls thinking and memory, giving people another reason to take better care of their teeth.
Researchers note that more research would be needed on a larger sample to determine the cause of this relationship.