Wearing dentures may help protect older adults from cognitive decline, according to a new study published in Aging Medicine on Dec. 23.
Researchers from NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing analyzed nearly 10 years of data from 27,708 older adults in China, including those with partial or complete tooth loss.
The study found that adults with partial tooth loss who wore dentures showed better baseline cognitive function and slower mental decline compared to those without dentures. For participants missing all their teeth, denture wearers had higher initial cognitive scores but no difference in the rate of decline.
While the findings suggest a link between denture use and brain health, the authors emphasized it does not confirm dentures directly prevent cognitive decline.
Not the first study
This isn’t the first study to highlight the connection between dental health and cognition. Earlier research suggested that preserving natural teeth or replacing missing ones is associated with better mental sharpness.
The researchers also explored the link between oral health and nutrition. Previous studies have shown that fewer teeth often lead to lower diet quality, which could contribute to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. This study noted that denture wearers consumed more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and milk than those without dentures, echoing a 2022 study that tied fewer teeth to less diverse diets.
“These results add further evidence to the interrelationship between oral health and brain aging and highlight the need for research into the impact of prosthodontic rehabilitation on cognitive health,” the authors concluded.
The findings stress the importance of oral care and highlight dentures as a potential tool to support both dietary habits and mental well-being in aging populations.
