Systemic health factors affecting the dental status of Korean patients with dementia: a comprehensive analysis
10.11149/jkaoh.2024.48.2.85
- Author:
Se Hoon KAHM
1
;
Je-Uk PARK
Author Information
1. Department of Dentistry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Journal of Korean Academy of Oral Health
2024;48(2):85-96
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objectives:Alzheimer’s disease, a pervasive neurodegenerative disorder with global implications, links oral health conditions, such as edentulism and periodontitis, to cognitive impairment. This study aimed to objectively assess the oral health of 1,456 patients with dementia using panoramic imaging and explore potential associations between general health and anthropometric measurements.
Methods:Patients’ panoramic images documented at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital and Eunpyeong St. Mary’s Hospital during 2011-2020 were retrospectively scrutinized for oral health parameters. Data on general health, anthropometrics, and body mass index (BMI) were collected. The patients were categorized according to their remaining teeth, dental caries, presence of periodontitis, and BMI.
Results:The average age was 74.20 years, and the average teeth number was 20.67. Significant differences in dental caries and periodontitis rates were observed across BMI categories. Younger age and female sex correlated with improved oral health. The underweight BMI group exhibited higher caries rates, whereas the average BMI group showed favorable outcomes for both caries and periodontitis.
Conclusions:Comprehensive analysis including panoramic imaging revealed notable associations between oral health and BMI in patients with dementia, emphasizing the importance of regular dental checkups. This study underscores the potential links between oral health and systemic conditions in dementia, necessitating further research to elucidate causal relationships and mechanisms.
