Association between dental implants and health outcomes in Korean patients with dementia: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a growing global health concern, and emerging evidence suggests that oral health—particularly tooth loss—may be linked to cognitive decline. While implant therapy effectively restores oral function, its systemic health implications in dementia patients have not been fully investigated.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 1,445 dementia patients treated at two tertiary hospitals in Korea between 2011 and 2020. Clinical data, panoramic radiographs, and laboratory biomarkers were assessed to compare systemic and oral health outcomes between implant and non-implant groups. Statistical analyses included parametric and nonparametric tests with Bonferroni post-hoc validation.

RESULTS

Baseline demographics were similar between groups. Mortality was lower in the implant group (10.6% vs. 15.6%, p = 0.014). Laboratory markers showed statistically significant but clinically modest differences in serum calcium (8.90 vs. 8.78 mg/dL) and C-reactive protein (1.94 vs. 2.17 mg/dL). Oral health outcomes were significantly superior in implant recipients, including more remaining teeth (23.4 vs. 19.7) and greater posterior occlusal support (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Dental implant therapy in dementia patients was associated with lower mortality and superior oral health. However, these associations likely reflect inherent selection bias and better healthcare access among implant recipients rather than direct treatment effects. Prospective longitudinal studies with neurocognitive assessments are required to confirm potential causal relationships.