Effect of Tooth Loss on Your Memory
If you lose a tooth, are you more likely to also lose your keys? According to a recent study, the answer is “yes.” Researchers found that those with fewer natural teeth scored lower on memory tests than those who were missing no or few natural teeth. Nearly three hundred people over the age of fifty-five were involved in the study, which was published in the “European Journal of Oral Sciences.”
The link between tooth loss and memory loss remained even after researchers considered other variables, but the reason for the link was unclear. The study adds to a growing body of evidence that tooth loss can have serious consequences for mind and body. Previous animal studies demonstrated that rats that had had teeth pulled tended to suffer from damage in the hippocampus and neuronal loss, which affected their ability to form new memories.
Several factors could play a role in the link between tooth loss and memory loss. Natural teeth help us eat a varied diet rich in nutrients, which keeps the brain fueled. Additionally, when you bite and chew, the nerves that connect to the brain are stimulated. The bacteria that cause dental disease and subsequent tooth loss can increase inflammation in the brain, triggering neuronal loss.
Keeping your teeth healthy may just help keep your brain healthy, too. If you have already lost a tooth, a dental implant can be a good option. Replacing teeth with implants allows for the most natural restoration possible and can help you maintain a balanced diet, protect your smile, and restore your dental health. Call us to learn more or to schedule your consultation with our team.