There seems to be a link between poor oral health and age-related mental decline, researchers say.
However, the researchers emphasized there is not enough evidence to prove a direct link between oral health and thinking (“cognitive”) abilities.
In a new report, investigators reviewed studies on oral health and cognition published between 1993 and 2013.
Some of the studies found that oral health indicators — such as the number of teeth, the number of cavities and the presence of gum disease — was associated with a higher risk of mental decline or dementia, while other studies did not find any association.
The study authors also noted that some of the findings based on the number of teeth or cavities were conflicting. The new review was published in the April 1 issue of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
(Source: HealthDay News)