Impact of non-surgical periodontal therapy on cognitive decline

Periodontitis is a reservoir of peripheral inflammation that may lead to cognitive decline. A recent meta-analysis reported that people with cognitive decline had fewer teeth, more carious teeth, worse oral hygiene, poorer periodontal health and poor quality of life. Management of modifiable factors, such as type 2 diabetes, smoking, obesity, hypertension, lower education level, depression and sedentary behaviour, may prevent the onset or slow down the progression of cognitive decline. Research has demonstrated that periodontitis is associated with these modifiable factors and social determinants of health. Evidence suggests that treating periodontitis using Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy (NSPT) can reduce inflammatory biomarkers that may reduce cognitive decline, improve quality of life and decrease the cost of care.