Maintaining good oral hygiene is not only crucial for dental health but also for overall well-being. A new study conducted by Japanese researchers has found a link between poor dental health and a decline in brain volume, suggesting that taking care of our teeth is essential for better brain health.
The study, conducted at Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, examined the association between gum disease, tooth loss, and brain shrinkage in the hippocampus, a region of the brain involved in memory and Alzheimer’s disease. Although the study does not confirm a causal relationship between gum disease or tooth loss and Alzheimer’s disease, it highlights an association worth considering.
The findings, published in the online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, showed that gum disease and tooth loss were associated with shrinkage in the left hippocampus. The researchers conducted dental exams, memory tests, and brain scans on 172 participants with an average age of 67. None of the participants had memory problems at the beginning of the study.
When comparing the test results taken at the start of the study and four years later, the researchers observed a faster rate of brain shrinkage in the left hippocampus among individuals with mild gum disease and fewer teeth. Similarly, individuals with severe gum disease and more teeth showed an accelerated rate of brain shrinkage. The observed changes in brain volume were equivalent to nearly one to 1.3 years of brain aging.
Study author Satoshi Yamaguchi emphasized the importance of preserving dental health, stating that it is not only about retaining teeth but also about maintaining their overall health.
Poor oral hygiene can contribute to various health problems, including dental cavities, gum disease, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. This study adds another dimension to the potential consequences of neglecting dental health, highlighting the need for individuals to prioritize their oral hygiene practices. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing techniques, and a balanced diet can all contribute to maintaining good dental health and potentially reducing the associated risks.
While further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between dental health and brain health, this study serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of different aspects of our well-being. By taking care of our teeth, we may also be taking care of our brains and promoting better overall health.
