Literature review of relationship between mastication and dementia, and a perspective on future research directions

Abstract

The number of patients with dementia is increasing not only in Japan but also worldwide. Recently, the importance of prevention in daily life rather than treatment is emphasized for dementia. As prevention of dementia, various preventive methods such as improvement of lifestyle habits such as appropriate exercise and diet therapy have been introduced, and mastication is also expected as one of them.

Although there are many reports supporting the relationship between mastication and dementia / cognitive function based on previous research reviews, the underlying mechanism has not been elucidated. In order to understand the mechanism in the future, it is necessary to conduct comprehensive research and research based on the research system of medical and dental cooperation, and the progress of neuroimaging research may greatly contribute.