Oral health and cognitive function: Insights from longitudinal ageing study in India (LASI) - A cross-sectional analysis

Introduction

The oral cavity is related to nervous system diseases, and oral issues have a bidirectional correlation with cognitive dysfunction. Thus, this study aims to explore the association between oral health problems and cognitive dysfunction in community-dwelling Indian older adults.

Materials and Methods

Utilizing data from LASI, a nationally representative cohort study, this study involved 30,726 participants aged ≥60 years. The oral health problems of study participants were self-reported. Cognitive impairment was assessed using composite score, and a score of less than -1.5 SD was defined as the presence of cognitive impairment.

Results

In univariate analysis, significant associations were observed between oral health problems (loss of some natural teeth, OR: 1.33, 95 % CI: 1.15–1.52, p < 0.001; lost all natural teeth, OR: 2.33, 95 % CI: 1.97–2.76, p < 0.001) and ease of chewing solid food [Fairly well (OR: 1.51, 95 % CI: 1.33–1.71, p < 0.001) and not at all (OR: 2.37, 95 % CI: 2.11–2.67, p < 0.001)] with cognitive impairment. In multivariate analysis, adjusted for various factors, a significant association persisted between loss of all natural teeth (OR: 1.62, 95 % CI: 1.34–1.95, p < 0.001) and the ability to chew solid food. Specifically, individuals reporting chewing solid food “Fairly well” (OR: 1.34, 95 % CI: 1.16–1.52, p < 0.001) and those unable to chew at all (OR: 1.73, 95 % CI: 1.51–1.97, p < 0.001) with cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

The findings of this study underscore a compelling connection between oral health issues and cognitive impairment. Consequently, it is imperative to proactively identify and address oral health problems in older adults.