Link Made Between Tooth Loss And Mental Decline

If you’re above a certain age, it could be advisable to make an appointment with one of the dentists Manchester has on its books, as new research has indicated that tooth loss can be associated with both mental and physical decline.

According to the University College London study, adults with none of their own teeth performed around ten per cent worse in walking speed and memory tests than those with teeth, with these links more evident in people aged between 60 and 74 years old.

Dr Georgios Tsakos, lead author of the survey, suggested that tooth loss could be an early signifier of physical and mental decline in later life, with common causes often associated with socioeconomic status. This, he continued, emphasises the importance of social factors like wealth and education with regards to the improvement of the general health of society’s poorest members.

“Recognising excessive tooth loss presents an opportunity for early identification of adults at higher risk of faster mental and physical decline later in their life. There are many factors likely to influence this decline, such as lifestyle and psychosocial factors, which are amenable to change,” he remarked.

The study comes after Newcastle University found that those with higher deprivation and lower income, occupational class and educational achievement had eight fewer teeth by the time they reached their 70s than the richest members of society.

Focusing on good oral health is advisable and lifestyle can have a big impact, so if you’re concerned about your teeth, consider your alcohol intake, diet and smoking as these can all cause problems for teeth and gums.