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Gum Disease Linked to Poor Mental Performance
December 5, 2008
In a recent study, scientists found associations between tooth loss and/or loss of periodontal attachment (where the ligament is no longer attaching the teeth to the bone) and reduced mental performance. The researchers examined data from the third national Health and Nutrition examination survey, which analyzed 5138 adults ages 28-59 who had completed 2 tests of intellectual function and 1550 individuals ages 70 and older who took a 3rd mental performance test. Interestingly enough, this study showed that poor oral health and the reduced mental function that so often accompanies it were not influenced by age.
Oral health influences cognitive function through several mechanisms. Periodontal disease can cause inflammation throughout the body. (Levels of inflammation can be measured by certain blood tests such as c-reactive protein and sedimentation rate). When inflammation flares, mental function can deteriorate. Reduced oral health frequently leads to a less healthy diet, which contributes to a loss in mental function due to nutritional deficiencies. Poor dental health can also increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
Another recent study showed that periodontal disease significantly increased the risk of Metabolic Syndrome. Metabolic Syndrome is a cluster of risk factors for heart disease, stroke and diabetes (including high blood pressure, abdominal obesity, high blood sugar, low levels of HDL and high triglycerides). The syndrome is usually diagnosed when an individual has 3 or more of these traits.
(Dr. Francesco D’Aiuto, Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Oct 2008).
Topics: Health News