Projo Fitness Blog

Researchers have evidence that periodontal health is important to the prevention of heart disease and diabetes.

Now, scientists are trying to determine whether healthy teeth and gums benefit our brains, according to the Tufts Health & Nutrition Letter.

"The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently announced a $1.3 million study to investigate connections between older people's oral health and their mental functioning," the newsletter reports. "Researchers will examine several large existing data sets from previous studies to see how oral health affects cognitive function -- and vice versa -- over time."

A West Virginia University study, in progress, suggests that there is a connection between poor oral health and reduced brain function among older people.

The connection between poor oral health and heart disease is well established.

"We are hopeful to have more evidence to support the tenet that oral health is also important for cognitive health, and to increase our understanding of determinants of oral health among older adults," said Richard Crout, a physician participating in the West Virginia study as well as the NIH project.

In the meantime, the Tufts newsletter advises, brush your teeth.

 Tags  brain dental health gums periodontal health

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