Oral health and healthy chewing for healthy cognitive ageing: A comprehensive narrative review

doi:10.1111/ger.12510

Q3 · ReviewImpact Factor · 1.435

AutoresLucia Lopez-Chaichio, Miguel Padial-Molina, Francisco O'Valle, Jose Antonio Gil-Montoya, Andres Catena, Pablo Galindo-Moreno

Por qué importa

Este artículo de revisión narrativa examina la relación entre la salud oral, específicamente la función masticatoria, y el envejecimiento cognitivo, abordando el deterioro cognitivo asociado a la edad y enfermedades neurodegenerativas. Se destaca que la activación de los músculos masticatorios y una masticación adecuada, ya sea con dientes naturales o prótesis dentales, promueven la actividad neuronal, el soporte trófico, el flujo sanguíneo cerebral y la prevención de la formación de placas beta-amiloides. La evidencia sugiere que mantener un sistema masticatorio funcional es crucial para preservar la función cognitiva y prevenir el declive relacionado con la edad. Por lo tanto, la restauración y el mantenimiento de la salud oral general se presentan como estrategias importantes para un envejecimiento cognitivo saludable, lo cual subraya la relevancia de la intervención odontológica en este ámbito.

Abstract original

Introduction: Ageing leads to physiological cognitive decline that it is worsened in people with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Despite the ongoing search for a solution to this cognitive decline, no effective remedies have been established. It has been determined that modifiable external factors, such as oral health and occlusal function, prevent cognitive decline. Objective: To analyse the primary interactions between occlusal function and cognitive functions. Main findings: Masticatory function is related to cognitive functions. In particular, current evidence, from both animal and human studies, suggests that the activation of masticatory muscles and proper mastication, with natural teeth or dental prosthesis, induces the release of several mediators and the activation of specific brain areas. Together, they result in higher neuronal activity, neurotrophic support, blood flow and the prevention of amyloid-beta plaque formation. Thus, all the components of the masticatory system must work together in order to preserve cognitive function. Conclusions: Available evidence suggests that oral and cognitive health are more interconnected than previously thought. Therefore, maintenance and adequate restoration of the whole masticatory system are important for the prevention of cognitive decline. In summary, oral and chewing health lead to healthy cognitive ageing.

Leer texto completo ↗DOI · 10.1111/ger.12510

Autor Doctor&Cols

Lucía López Chaichío
Rehabilitación Oral y Estética Dental

Cómo citar

Lopez-Chaichio L, Padial-Molina M, O'Valle F, Gil-Montoya JA, Catena A, Galindo-Moreno P. Oral health and healthy chewing for healthy cognitive ageing: A comprehensive narrative review. Gerodontology. 2020. doi:10.1111/ger.12510