We’re all familiar with the important role healthy eating and exercise play in keeping our bodies fit and our minds sharp. But few of us realise that something as basic as proper dental hygiene could be the key to maintaining our brain health as we age.

According to a new study conducted by a group of researchers at Yale, oral health and brain health are closely linked – poor dental hygiene can actually lead to long-term cognitive decline!


The study, which was recently published in the journal medRxiv, found that poor oral health caused brain changes that were associated with the onset of dementia and stroke years before the decline was observable. This damage to the white matter of the brain caused 'white matter hyperintensities', which slowed the signals transmitted to the brain and eventually led to cognitive decline.


But why is this link between oral health and brain health so important?


Unfortunately, poor oral health is a common public health problem and according to Healthdirect Australia, nearly one-third of Australian adults have moderate to severe gum disease, which is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss. Moreover, once gum disease begins, it is no longer something that can be cured by brushing and flossing alone – it already requires intervention by a dentist.

However, not everyone has access to or can afford the dental care they need. This is why the study’s authors have urged policymakers all around the world to commit more resources to improving oral health, as the long-term cognitive health benefits will far outweigh the investment.

A significant shift in public health policy is needed if we want to rise to the challenge of keeping ourselves cognitively healthy. In the meantime, it's essential to explore and utilise existing resources to ensure continued oral health as we age.



So, dear members, if you want to keep your brain healthy and reduce your risk of cognitive decline as you age, make sure to pay attention to your oral health too! Be sure to brush and floss twice a day, and pay a visit to the dentist regularly.


If you don’t have health insurance or if your finances are tight, find out whether there’s a dental school in the area that provides care on a sliding fee scale. This allows dentistry students to gain practical experience while being closely supervised by expert dental professionals. Moreover, retirees can explore private insurance schemes that offer a wide range of dental services. Alternatively, some states also provide public dental benefits for seniors who hold a Pensioner Concession Card or a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. The services provided under these schemes can vary, so it's worth researching what's being offered in your local area.

Remember that maintaining great oral health isn’t just about avoiding the dreaded toothache or unsightly stains. It's an investment into your brain health and quality of life. So, follow that golden rule – brush, floss, and repeat – and remember to seek professional help in time to keep the smile on, and the mind sharp.


We also have some activities you can try to keep your cognitive function active!

Sharing is caring – so let us know how you take care of your oral health and brain health in the comment section below!