Tooth loss is independently associated with cognitive impairment and dementia, suggests a study published in JAMDA.
A study was conducted by a group of researchers from U.S.A to quantify the dose-response associations between tooth loss and risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.
Longitudinal studies that examined the association between tooth loss and cognitive function were systematically searched on 6 databases through March 1, 2020. The study adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. Risk estimates were pooled using random-effects models. The dose-response associations were assessed using generalized least squares spline models.
Cognitive impairment and dementia were defined by neuropsychological tests, diagnostic criteria, or medical records. Tooth loss was self-reported or assessed by clinical examinations.
The results of the study are as follows:
· Fourteen studies were entered into the meta-analysis, including 34,074 participants and 4689 cases with diminished cognitive function.
· Participants with more tooth loss had 1.48 times higher risk of developing cognitive impairment and 1.28 times higher risk of being diagnosed with dementia; however, the association was nonsignificant for participants using dentures.
· Eight studies were included in the dose-response analysis, and data supported the use of linear models.
· Each additional tooth loss was associated with a 0.014 increased relative risk of cognitive impairment and 0.011 elevated relative risks of dementia.
· Edentulous participants faced 1.54 times higher risk of cognitive impairment and 1.40 times higher risk of being diagnosed with dementia.
Thus, the researchers concluded that moderate-quality evidence suggested tooth loss was independently associated with cognitive impairment and dementia; risk of diminished cognitive function increased with incremental numbers of teeth lost. Furthermore, timely prosthodontic treatment with dentures may reduce the progression of cognitive decline related to tooth loss.
Reference:
Dose-Response Meta-Analysis on Tooth Loss With the Risk of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia by Qi X et. al published in the JAMDA.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamda.2021.05.009