Tooth loss is more than just an aesthetic issue — more and more research recognizes it as a risk factor for cognitive decline, memory impairment, and even dementia. While we often focus on the cosmetic or functional concerns of missing teeth, studies increasingly show that your oral health may directly impact your brain health.
At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, we understand the importance of preserving your teeth and oral health not only for your smile but also for your overall well-being. This article highlights what the science says, why keeping or replacing your teeth matters, and how dental implants may help preserve cognitive function.
Table of Contents
What causes tooth loss?
Tooth loss in adults is more than just a cosmetic issue — it's often the result of preventable conditions and lifestyle factors. Common causes include:
What are the risk factors for tooth loss?
Why is it crucial to replace missing teeth?
Retaining damaged or severely infected teeth can lead to chronic inflammation, further bone loss, and even infections that spread beyond the mouth. Even worse, not replacing missing teeth has been associated with:
How does tooth loss affect the brain?
Tooth Loss and Brain Shrinkage
In a study published on the journal of the American Academy of Neurology from researchers from Tohoku University found that tooth loss and gum disease were linked to shrinkage in the hippocampus — a vital region of the brain responsible for memory and closely associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
- People with mild gum disease and fewer teeth showed faster brain aging.
- Those with severe gum disease and more teeth also had greater brain shrinkage — possibly due to prolonged inflammation.
The study suggests preserving healthy teeth or replacing severely diseased ones is vital to long-term brain health.
Chinese Longitudinal Study on Tooth Loss and Cognitive Function
This extensive research found that:
- Individuals with severe tooth loss — especially those who were completely edentulous — had a significantly higher risk of cognitive decline.
- The impact of tooth loss on cognitive function was more pronounced in older adults.
Conclusion: The more teeth lost — especially without timely replacement — the greater the risk of memory loss and mental decline.
Meta-Analysis of 356,000+ Participants
A global meta-analysis of 18 cohort studies confirmed:
- Tooth loss increases the risk of cognitive decline by 20% and dementia by 15%
- Strong associations were found with both Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia
- Potential reasons include malnutrition, systemic inflammation, and lack of neural stimulation
This study offers some of the strongest statistical evidence that losing teeth contributes to cognitive aging.
How does dental implants help protect brain health?
A dental implant is a durable, biocompatible (titanium or ceramic) post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. It is then topped with a crown that closely resembles your natural tooth.
When it comes to missing teeth, dental implants offer the most advanced solution — both functionally and biologically.
Benefits of dental implants
Key Takeaways: The Mouth-Brain Connection
At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, our team of experienced Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, Specialist Periodontists, and Implantologists combine decades of expertise with cutting-edge digital technology to deliver world-class tooth replacement solutions. Whether you’re exploring options to replace missing teeth or searching for a trusted dental home for your family, we’re here to help. Call us at 04 394 7777 to book your consultation.
References
- Chen, H., Wu, Y. Y., & Zhang, W. (2022). Age accelerated effect of tooth loss on cognitive function among Chinese older adults. The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific, 25, 100523. (View reference)
- Yamaguchi, S., Murakami, T., Satoh, M., Komiyama, T., Ohi, T., Miyoshi, Y., Endo, K., Hiratsuka, T., Hara, A., Tatsumi, Y., Totsune, T., Asayama, K., Kikuya, M., Nomura, K., Hozawa, A., Metoki, H., Imai, Y., Watanabe, M., Ohkubo, T., & Hattori, Y. (2023). Associations of dental health with the progression of hippocampal atrophy in community-dwelling individuals: The Ohasama Study. Neurology, 101(10), e1056–e1068. (View reference)
- Liu, L., Wu, C., Zhang, Q., Yang, Y., Deng, Y., Yin, S., Zhou, Q., Zhang, Y., Lin, Z., Gan, Y., & Xu, Z. (2023). Tooth loss and the risk of cognitive decline and dementia: A meta-analysis of cohort studies. Frontiers in Neurology, 14, 1103052. (View reference)
- Ki S, Yun J, Kim J, Lee Y. Association Between Dental Implants and Cognitive Function in Community-dwelling Older Adults in Korea. J Prev Med Public Health. 2019 Sep;52(5):333-343. doi: 10.3961/jpmph.19.163. Epub 2019 Sep 20. PMID: 31588703; PMCID: PMC6780296. (View reference)
- Ahmed SE, Mohan J, Kalaignan P, Kandasamy S, Raju R, Champakesan B. Influence of Dental Prostheses on Cognitive Functioning in Elderly Population: A Systematic Review. J Pharm Bioallied Sci. 2021 Jun;13(Suppl 1):S788-S794. doi: 10.4103/jpbs.JPBS_773_20. Epub 2021 Jun 5. PMID: 34447202; PMCID: PMC8375895. (View reference)
