How Your Oral Health Can Affect Your Cognitive Function: The Surprising Link Between Teeth and Brain Health

Patients who present with tooth loss and inflammation of the gums are at a higher risk of developing cognitive issues later in life, including dementia. And patients with dementia and age-related cognitive decline are also more likely to suffer with issues related to their oral health.

If you’re curious to learn more about the link between oral health and cognitive decline, we’re put together this simple guide to help you to understand the connection. If you’re concerned about anything outlined in this guide, book an appointment with your dentist for personalised advice and support.

The link between cognitive decline and oral health

The health of your teeth and your gums can have a wide impact on the rest of your body. This is why caring for your teeth is so important at every stage of your life. The biggest risk factor is the presence of inflammation in the gums, which can spread throughout the body.

Bacteria is also a risk, as this can enter the body through the respiratory tract and the bloodstream. Inflammation and bacteria are often present in patients with poor oral hygiene, as these can both be easily managed with a strict brushing routine.

When there is chronic inflammation of the gums, this can trigger processes throughout the body that will contribute to cognitive decline.

Gum disease and inflammation can also lead to tooth loss, which will have an impact on the variety of food the patient is able to eat. Chewing ability may be lost, which means that the patient won’t be able to properly extract nutrients from their food. The loss of diversity in the diet can also contribute to cognitive decline.

Discomfort from dental pain can also lead to higher levels of stress, which is also linked to cognitive decline. The body is not designed to withstand long-term stress, so this can lead to damage throughout the body, including the brain.

How is oral health impacted by cognitive decline?

Unfortunately, the connection goes both ways. Patients suffering from cognitive decline are also more likely to face poor oral health. This is simply because it can be more difficult to stick to routines, and steps like brushing your teeth in the morning can be forgotten.

It can often take a while for family members and friends to notice and take action, often fearing that they might be overstepping. This can mean that it takes a long time for the individual to get help, since they might not have the cognitive ability to be able to ask for help.

How can your dentist help?

At every stage of life, your dentist will be there to support you. Taking care of your teeth throughout your life is one of the best ways to safeguard against cognitive decline in your future.

Brushing and flossing twice a day should be part of your daily routine, and you should also aim to visit the dentist between one and two times per year. This will give you the best possible foundation for supporting your oral health.

Issues should be addressed with urgency, particularly things like bleeding gums or sore teeth. Tackling problems with your oral health as soon as they arise can often make the treatment outcome more successful.

And finally, if you have a family member you are worried about, don’t be afraid to step in and suggest a dental checkup. Your dentist will be able to identify if there are issues with their oral health, and this can often be an early indicator of cognitive decline. We can then coordinate a response with their GP and ensure they have the support they need moving forward.

Final thoughts on oral health and brain health

Keeping your teeth healthy as you get older can have widespread benefits for your wider health. There’s still a lot we don’t know about the link between oral health and brain health, but we do know that unhealthy teeth and gums are linked to instances of cognitive decline.