Effects of Tooth Loss on Memory

While this may be news to you, it has long been known that tooth loss can cause a variety of physical complications. Once a tooth is lost, the jawbone underneath it actually starts to absorb into the body. If it is allowed to progress, this process will actually cause the shape of your face to cave in. It is now being discovered that tooth loss can also lead to cognitive difficulties, such as memory loss.

The hippocampus is the portion of the brain that forms and recalls memories. When we chew, we are actually sending sensory impulses to this region of our brain. Chewing also increases blood flow to the brain. A recent study indicates that there is a direct correlation between the number of teeth that we have and the quality of these impulses that get sent to our brain. The fewer teeth we have, the less stimulation occurs to these regions.

While these findings are very intriguing, there can also be other factors at play for these cases. It is thought that people who are missing teeth avoid eating certain foods that contain the necessary nutrients. Many people who have lost their teeth wear dentures. The discomfort that can be caused by wearing dentures may also cause them to eat less in general. If your body is not getting the nutrients that it needs, then all parts of the body will be affected, including the brain.

Most dentists agree that the best option for replacing missing teeth is the placement of dental implants. Dental implants mimic the function of your natural teeth and will help consistently send these vital signals to the brain. If you have lost several of your teeth, contact our expert in multiple dental implants in Los Angeles to set up a consultation.

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