New York, Mar 26 (IANS): We are often ignorant about loss of teeth but preserving oral health can benefit you in a longer run. According to researchers, loss of teeth is linked to increased risk for cognitive impairment and dementia in adults.

The findings showed that individuals with less than 20 teeth were at a 20 percent higher risk for developing cognitive decline and dementia than those with greater than or equal to 20 teeth.

The increase of cognitive impairment and its pathologic correlates, such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease, is increasing in aging populations and creating a significant burden on health systems.

The study, published in the journal JDR Clinical & Translational Research, shows an association between tooth loss and reduced cognitive function in adults was conducted by the International and American Associations for Dental Research.

Better insight into the nature and extent of the association between oral health and cognitive function is of great importance since it could lead to preventive interventions for cognitive performance.

This information suggests that oral health strategies aimed to preserve teeth may be important in reducing risk of systemic disease.