Periodontal Health and Alzheimer’s: A Potential Link
There is growing evidence suggesting a potential link between periodontal health, the health of your gums and supporting tissues, and Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
Here’s what we know so far:
Chronic inflammation: Periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, is characterized by chronic inflammation. This inflammation can release harmful substances into the bloodstream, potentially reaching the brain and contributing to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Bacteria: Some bacteria associated with periodontitis have been found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. While the role of these bacteria is still unclear, it suggests a possible link between oral health and brain health.
Amyloid plaques and tau tangles: These are two hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease that build up in the brain and disrupt brain function. Studies have shown that people with periodontitis may have higher levels of these harmful proteins in their brains.
It’s important to note that the research on this link is still ongoing. While there is suggestive evidence, it’s not yet definitive. More research is needed to determine the exact nature of the relationship between periodontal health and Alzheimer’s disease.
However, what we do know is that maintaining good oral health is important for overall health and well-being. Here are some tips for keeping your gums and teeth healthy:
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day.
See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Quit smoking, as smoking can increase your risk of gum disease.
Manage other health conditions, such as diabetes, which can also affect your oral health.
While maintaining good periodontal health may not prevent Alzheimer’s disease, it can be an important part of a healthy lifestyle that may help reduce your risk of developing this and other chronic diseases.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
Alzheimer’s Association: https://www.alz.org/
National Institute on Aging: https://www.nia.nih.gov/
American Dental Association: https://www.ada.org/
Don’t leave your oral health to guesswork. Dr. Elke Krach and the team of dental experts at Creekside Family Dental Care are here to help. Give us a call at 905.295.3011 to schedule an appointment today!