Association of Gum Treatment with Cognitive Decline and Dementia Risk among Older Adults with Periodontal Symptoms: A 12-Year Prospective Cohort Study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

This study examines the associations of gum treatment with cognitive decline and dementia risk among older adults with periodontal symptoms in the USA.

Methods

A cohort of 866 adults aged ≥50 with periodontal symptoms was recruited for the 2008 Health and Retirement Study "Dental Health Experimental Module" and followed until 2020. Cognitive function was assessed with the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS). Dementia status was ascertained with the Langa-Weir algorithm based on TICS scores and proxy assessments. Linear mixed-effects model and multivariable Cox regression models were utilized to analyze the associations of gum treatment with cognitive decline and the risk of dementia, respectively.

Results

Of 866 participants (mean age 67.7, 61

SUBMITTER: Qi X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11759719 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature