Recent research suggests a compelling connection between tooth loss, gum disease, and hippocampal atrophy, with potential implications for brain health surpassing the effects of aging.
A study involving a cohort of late middle-aged and older individuals revealed that mild periodontitis in patients correlated with a heightened rate of left hippocampal atrophy, particularly evident in those with fewer teeth. In cases of severe gum disease, each additional lost tooth was associated with an accelerated rate of brain shrinkage, akin to 1.3 years of brain aging.
Dr. Satoshi Yamaguchi, PhD, DDS, from Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, emphasized the significance of exploring the link between tooth-related conditions and dementia. He stated, “Tooth loss and gum disease…are very common, so evaluating a potential link with dementia is incredibly important.” Dr. Yamaguchi emphasized the need for individuals to take better care of their teeth in light of these findings.
The study, published online on July 5 in Neurology, challenges previous notions by revealing a substantial correlation between tooth loss, periodontitis, and hippocampal atrophy, an aspect not consistently supported by earlier longitudinal research.
To delve into this association, the researchers tracked 172 men and women, averaging 67 years old, who underwent two MRI brain scans over a 4-year span, coupled with dental examinations. Participants showed no signs of cognitive decline at the study’s commencement.
At baseline, comprehensive data on cardiovascular health, alcohol consumption, smoking habits, depression history, and cognitive function were gathered. Dental exams and the Mini–Mental Status Exam were administered at baseline and the 4-year follow-up.
Analysis of the data revealed a significant qualitative interaction between the number of teeth present (NPT) and mean periodontal probing depth (PD) for the annual symmetric percentage change (SPC) in the left hippocampus over the study period.
Among participants with mild periodontitis, a correlation emerged between fewer teeth and an accelerated rate of left hippocampal atrophy, equating each lost tooth to nearly 1 year of brain aging. Conversely, individuals with severe periodontitis experienced a faster rate of left hippocampal atrophy with more teeth, equivalent to 1.3 years of brain aging.
The study underscores the importance of preserving oral health beyond merely retaining teeth. Dr. Yamaguchi emphasized, “Controlling the progression of gum disease through regular dental visits is crucial, and teeth with severe gum disease may need to be extracted and replaced with appropriate prosthetic devices.”
While the results highlight the potential association between periodontitis and left hippocampal atrophy, the researchers stress the necessity for further studies to validate these findings.
The study received support from various entities, including the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, and several pharmaceutical companies. The investigators report no relevant financial relationships.
