As we age, our risk for many illnesses increases, including both periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s disease. But did you know that these two conditions can sometimes be related? It’s true. In fact, studies linking periodontal bacteria to dementia and cognitive decline are becoming more common and the importance of excellent oral health is getting increasingly clearer with each passing day. Here’s more about the link between these two serious diseases and what you can do to lower your risk of both.
The Alzheimer’s / Periodontal Disease Connection
Periodontal disease has several key symptoms, including red, swollen gums, receding gums, and the presence of “sub-gingival pockets” along the gumline. These pockets form just below the teeth, allowing dangerous bacteria called p.gingivalis to infiltrate your gums and make their way into your bloodstream.
Once in your blood, it is strongly believed that p.gingivalis can travel throughout your body, eventually making its way to your brain. A study by Scientific Advances even found that when present in mice, this dangerous bacteria was capable of destroying neurons and causing many of the signs and symptoms we associate with Alzheimer’s disease.
Preventing Illness Through Proper Oral Hygiene
It is already well known that your oral health can easily affect your overall health. Your mouth is the gateway to your entire body, and everything from the food you eat, the germs you ingest, and the bacteria you allow into your bloodstream can originate from there.
When it comes to preventing Alzheimer’s disease and periodontal disease, one of the keys is through excellent oral hygiene practices. You can reduce your risk of both illnesses by:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day
- Flossing between every tooth (even dental implants) at least once a day
- Attending your regular, semi-annual dental exams
- Replacing or repairing lost or damaged teeth
What To Do If You Are Diagnosed with Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease affects about 19 percent of the world’s population, which is more than one billion people. In fact, an estimated 47.2 percent of American adults have some form of gum disease. If you fit into this category, you’re not alone. The good news is that while early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is reversible, periodontal disease is generally not, however it can be treated and prevented from worsening.
If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease or if you suspect you may have it, your dentist can help you treat many of the symptoms and protect your teeth and gums from further damage. Treating periodontal disease can not only save your teeth and gums, it can also help reduce your risk of developing other serious illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease.
About Our Practice
At Magnolia Shores Family Dental, we don’t just look at dentistry as a means to a beautiful smile, we use it to treat the entire body. Whether we’re helping you get relief from a temporomandibular joint disorder, improving your nutrition with a new set of dental implants, or lowering your risk of Alzheimer’s disease by treating your periodontal disease, we know that your oral health can have a powerful effect on your overall health.
If you’re concerned about your teeth and gums, schedule an appointment with us today by visiting our website or calling 336-490-5609.