Poor periodontal health linked to risk of dementia: study

HELSINKI, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- Poor periodontal health and tooth loss appear to increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, according to a recent study conducted by the University of Eastern Finland.

In a press release issued on Monday, the university said that as the aging population increases, the disease burden caused by memory disorders is expected to surge. With no widely available disease-modifying drugs, prevention of cognitive decline and dementia by targeting modifiable factors, such as lifestyle choices, is critically important.

The university's researchers in dentistry and neurology investigated the association of periodontal health with cognitive decline and dementia through a comprehensive systematic review consisting of meta-analyses and qualitative assessments of longitudinal studies.

They found that poor periodontal health (for example diseases of the gums) and tooth loss, which often results from untreated gum diseases, increase the risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

"A key observation is that poor periodontal health is a modifiable risk factor, which can be addressed through simple steps, such as self-care measures and regular use of basic oral health services, which may lower the risk of cognitive decline and dementia to some extent," Sam Asher, a doctoral researcher at the university, was quoted as saying in the press release.

Maintaining good periodontal health is particularly important for people who already have some cognitive impairment, he said.

Based on available evidence, it is not yet possible to accurately assess how much good oral health can reduce the risk of dementia. Further research is also needed to identify the oral health promotion programs that could effectively prevent memory disorders and who would benefit the most from these.

The researchers said that practicing adequate oral hygiene measures is paramount for maintaining good oral health, which may positively influence health and wellbeing in general.

The study was published in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society.