Who knew that good oral hygiene habits could impact mental health? Researchers at New York University's Rory Meyers School of Nursing concluded that flossing and brushing well can prevent cognitive decline and dementia.

For this, the specialists analyzed 14 studies on tooth loss and cognitive impairment carried out over a long period of time, in which a total of 34,074 adults and another 4,689 people with decreased cognitive function participated. "Adults with the most tooth loss had 1.48 times the risk of cognitive decline and 1.28 times the risk of dementia," the researchers revealed. For every missing tooth, the risk increases, according to the analysis published in JAMDA (The Journal of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine).

In this regard, Bei Wu, professor of global health at NYU's Rory Meyers School of Nursing and lead author of the study, reported: “Considering the staggering number of people who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and dementia each year and the opportunity to improve oral health throughout life, it is important to better understand the connection between poor oral health and cognitive decline. And he explained in dialogue with CNN: "We have to think about increasing the knowledge of the importance of oral health, and we also have to think about preventive treatment and dental prostheses", since those who have prostheses are less likely to suffer a cognitive impairment.

Meanwhile, for James Wilson, president of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP, for its acronym in English), dental prostheses are important because they allow patients to maintain a healthy diet, as well as provide them “the confidence to smile natural form".

In relation to the above, the specialist explained: “Being able to eat a normal diet is extremely important for a person's physical health. The positive self-image that dentures provide to a patient works to improve her mental health as well. "

Healthy mouth, healthy mind

For specialists, there is a close relationship between poor oral and brain health. The lack of teeth makes it difficult to chew and eat healthy foods, essential for proper brain function.

The specialists concluded that oral inflammation is closely linked to brain inflammation and cognitive impairment: “Untreated gum disease (gingivitis) can lead to tooth loss and can also increase the risk of developing other complications. of health. Inflammation as a result of periodontal disease has been linked to other disease states, such as cardiovascular disease, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and Alzheimer's, ”Wilson said on CNN.

Socioeconomic status is directly related to good oral hygiene. The specialists pointed out that "income and education are closely related to oral health, probably even more than many other chronic diseases, especially due to the lack of dental medical coverage for many."

For its part, the United States Dental Association also stated that preventive care and periodic dental check-ups are important to protect teeth from cavities and prevent gum disease: “Gingivitis can be prevented with daily brushing of teeth. teeth and flossing, as well as with routine visits to a dental health professional. Patients should also expect to receive a comprehensive periodontal evaluation on an annual basis, ”they concluded.