Tooth Loss & Slowing Body Functions

26 February 2015

Tooth Loss & Slowing Body Functions

Have you recently found it difficult to know where your house keys are or remember where you had placed your eyeglasses? Ever wonder why you forget such simple things immediately? These changes are often signs of memory loss.

Many older people today tend to worry about quickly becoming more forgetful. It seems they are afraid that forgetfulness is the serious warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. You are probably wondering what causes the brain to slow down.

Ageing alone, according to scientists, may cause people to lose brain cells. But, there are other factors that can affect the brain to have slow processing speed.

Mental Decline in Older Age

Recently, a team of researchers at London’s Global University (UCL) discovered that the memories of adults who have lost all their teeth decline faster than those who still have some of theirs. Their findings highlight that there is a link between total tooth loss and memory function.

The researchers looked at 3,166 adults aged 60 years and above, and then analysed their performance in memory as well as speed in walking. After studying several factors, such as unhealthy lifestyle, existing health problems and depression, they found out that seniors who have no teeth walked slower than those with teeth.

Lose Your Teeth, Lose Your Mind?

There is no doubt excessive tooth loss can be an early sign of mental and physical decline later in life. There are some things, however, that can influence this decline like having necessary dental treatments. The study aims to show that socioeconomic status plays a role in improving the oral and general health.

As a trusted name in the dental industry, we want to enlighten patients about the value of regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene. This is the reason we offer quality products and services, such as Invisalign, Lumineers, porcelain Veneers and more. Get in touch with us today or visit our other pages to know what we can do to help you.