Mind your teeth-The relationship between mastication and cognition
Roxane A F Weijenberg1, Suzanne Delwel1,2, Bach Van Ho1
1Oral Kinesiology, Academisch Centrum Tandheelkunde Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Gerodontology
|November 28, 2018
Summary
This study investigates the link between chewing and brain function, particularly in dementia patients. Findings suggest a complex interplay, where poor oral health may worsen cognitive decline, and reduced chewing could impact memory.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Oral Health
Background:
- Older adults, especially those with dementia, face significant oral health issues like pain and tooth loss.
- Dementia-related cognitive and motor deficits may impair self-care, leading to poorer oral health.
- A bidirectional relationship between oral health and cognition is hypothesized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifactorial relationship between mastication (chewing) and cognitive function.
- To specifically examine this relationship in the context of dementia.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing animal and human studies on mastication and cognition.
- Analysis of potential contributing factors like self-care, nutrition, stress, and pain.
Main Results:
- Animal studies indicate reduced masticatory activity can lead to memory loss and neuronal degeneration.
- Human studies suggest a correlation between mastication and cognition, but a definitive cause-effect link is not established.
- The relationship is likely influenced by multiple factors.
Conclusions:
- The connection between chewing and cognitive function, especially in dementia, is complex and multifactorial.
- Further research is needed to clarify the causal pathways and contributing elements.
- Maintaining oral health may be important for cognitive well-being in older adults.
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