Another reason why individuals at higher risk of tooth loss must take control of their oral health

earlier in life. Loss of cognitive function and tooth loss are linked.

See below for further details.

The memory and walking ability of  older adults who have lost all of their teeth decline faster than those who still have at least some of their own teeth, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.

“Tooth loss could be used as an early marker of mental and physical decline in older age, particularly among 60-74 year olds,” said lead author Georgios Tsakos,professor of epidemiology and public health at University College London, in a college news release.  He added that common causes of tooth loss andmental and physical decline are “often linked to socioconomic status”, such as education and wealth.

The study from researchers at UCL looked at 3,166 adults aged 60 or over and compared their performance in tests of memory and walking speed.  The results found that people with none of their own teeth performed about 10 percent worse in both tests than people with teeth.

“Regardless of what is behind the link between tooth loss and decline in function, recognizing 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,” Dr Tsakos said.

There is one misconception is that losing your teeth is inevitable as you age. If cared for properly, your teeth CAN last a lifetime.

In Conclusion:

Some patients, certainly believe that if their parents or a family member has lost their teeth then it is inevitable they will as well. Just remember in todays age, we are certainly in more control of the health of our bodies.  Through access to better foods, knowledge of better dental-hygiene practices, a consistent relationship with a dental professionals who is in-tune and places a high priority  to prevention as well as  modern dental techniques.

All of our dentists have a passion for dentistry and their top priority is along with a patients enthusiasm for improving their dental health they can help you improve yours.  Don’t hesitate to seek advice from our dental professionals.

Check out our team Principal Dentist Dr Pauls Sideris, Dr Trent Davidson, Dr  Daniella Brown and Dr Christian Curran.  Their purpose is there to help you find ways to stabilise the oral condition of your teeth.