Tooth loss and cognitive decline in community dwelling older Irish adults: a cross-sectional cohort study

A group of 2508 men and women, aged 50–93 years, underwent a dental examination as part of The Irish Longitudinal Study of ageing (TILDA). Global cognitive function was assessed using the mini-mental state examination (MMSE)

In this cross-sectional cohort study, tooth loss and related loss of occluding tooth pairs were associated with a low MMSE in a group of older adults from Ireland, independent of various known confounders.

Dentists should be aware of the potential systemic health implications of patients presenting with tooth loss. Tooth loss may be an important risk indicator for cognitive decline.