The association between clinically evaluated cognitive function and oral health in Norwegian older adults: The HUNT Study

Abstract

Poor oral health and neurocognitive disorders (NCDs) are both important public health challenges in the general older population.1, 2 Older adults with NCDs may have poorer oral health due to decline in self-care, medication side effects, and lower dietary quality.3 Yet, the association between cognitive function and oral health is unclear.4 Wu et al. advocated a standardized assessment of oral health and cognitive states to better evaluate their potential associations.4

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore the relationship between cognitive function and oral health, both thoroughly assessed by clinical experts, in a home-dwelling Norwegian older adult population.