Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 4, 2026
03:26
Author Spotlight: Improving Anesthesia Protocols for Enhanced Mouse Acupuncture Research
Published on: December 8, 2023
1.9K
Mastication as a tool to prevent cognitive dysfunctions
Gayathri Krishnamoorthy1, Aparna I Narayana1, Dhanasekar Balkrishanan1
1Department of Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal University, Manipal, 576104 India.
The Japanese Dental Science Review
|October 11, 2018
Summary
Chewing food enhances cognitive functions, particularly memory, by activating brain regions and increasing blood oxygen in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC). Maintaining normal occlusion is crucial for preserving these brain functions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Dental Science
Background:
- Mastication is primarily linked to digestion but also impacts general health, notably cognitive performance and memory.
- Studies indicate mastication activates various brain regions, yet its specific effects on neuronal activity remain underexplored.
- Mastication transmits sensory information to the brain and supports hippocampus-dependent learning and memory.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the neurological impact of mastication on cognitive functions, specifically memory.
- To elucidate how mastication influences neuronal activity in key brain regions.
- To emphasize the importance of maintaining normal occlusion for neurological health.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing evidence on mastication's effects on brain activation and cognitive function.
- Analysis of how mastication influences sensory information processing and memory consolidation.
- Examination of the relationship between occlusion, masticatory function, and brain activity.
Main Results:
- Mastication activates multiple cortical areas, contributing to enhanced cognitive performance.
- Increased cerebral blood oxygen levels in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC) are associated with improved learning and memory.
- Reduced mastication or occlusal disharmony can lead to hippocampal attenuation.
Conclusions:
- Mastication plays a significant role in cognitive enhancement, particularly in memory processes.
- Preserving normal occlusion and masticatory function is vital for maintaining brain health and preventing cognitive decline.
- Neurological benefits underscore the importance of dental health beyond basic function.
Related Concept Videos
01:38Cognitive Dissonance
37.5K
Social psychologists have documented that feeling good about ourselves and maintaining positive self-esteem is a powerful motivator of human behavior (Tavris & Aronson, 2008). In the United States, members of the predominant culture typically think very highly of themselves and view themselves as good people who are above average on many desirable traits (Ehrlinger, Gilovich, & Ross, 2005). Often, our behavior, attitudes, and beliefs are affected when we experience a threat to our...
37.5K
02:59Cancer Prevention
8.1K
Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Some...
8.1K
01:14Prevention of Further Absorption of Poison
1.3K
In cases of acute poisoning, the primary objective is to prevent further absorption of the toxic substance into the body. Immediate interventions using various decontamination techniques targeting the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can achieve this. Decontamination is crucial to prevent poison from entering the systemic circulation, which involves washing affected areas with water and mild soap and removing contaminated clothing. Once external decontamination is done, attention must be turned to...
1.3K
01:30Preventive Healthcare Services
2.2K
Preventive healthcare services keep people healthy via frequent check-ups, screening, and counseling. They primarily aid in disease prevention rather than treating an acute or chronic illness. Preventive treatment also keeps individuals productive and energetic, allowing them to work well into their retirement years. Examples of preventive care services include:
2.2K
01:23Cognition and Behavior
372
Social psychology examines the complex interplay between individual mental processes and social interactions. Historically, the field was divided into two domains: social behavior and social cognition. Researchers focusing on social behavior analyzed actions within social contexts, such as conformity, aggression, or cooperation. Meanwhile, social cognition researchers investigated how people perceive, interpret, and mentally represent their social environments. However, modern perspectives no...
372
01:21Cognitive Learning
1.1K
Cognitive learning is based on purposive behavior, incidental learning, and insight learning.
E. C. Tolman's theory of purposive behavior emphasizes that much behavior is goal-directed. He argued that to understand behavior, we must look at the entire sequence of actions leading to a goal. For instance, high school students study hard, not just due to past reinforcement but also to achieve the goal of getting into a good college.
Tolman introduced the idea that behavior is influenced by...
E. C. Tolman's theory of purposive behavior emphasizes that much behavior is goal-directed. He argued that to understand behavior, we must look at the entire sequence of actions leading to a goal. For instance, high school students study hard, not just due to past reinforcement but also to achieve the goal of getting into a good college.
Tolman introduced the idea that behavior is influenced by...
1.1K