You may have heard that your oral health can affect everything from your heart health to your baby’s health and even impact diabetes treatment. More research is showing just how much a healthy smile can influence a healthy body—and even a healthy mind.
Bacteria involved in oral health conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease have been linked to cognitive health. But how can the health of your teeth and gums influence your brain later in life? Let’s take a closer look at the relationship here.
Gum Disease May Increase Risk of Alzheimer’s
Gum disease involves an infection of your periodontal tissue that can result in bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, and loose teeth. In fact, periodontal (gum) disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among older adults.
However, research shows that older adults with gum disease aren’t just at higher risk to lose their teeth. They are also more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, which is the most common form of dementia [1].
In addition, people with dementia such as Alzheimer’s are less likely to care for their oral health as the disease progresses, which can increase the risk of gum disease as well.
Poor Oral Health Can Cause Bacteria to Travel to the Brain
Plaque accumulates on our teeth from what we eat and drink and how our oral bacteria respond to these substances as they are broken down in our mouths. We can remove plaque through daily brushing, flossing, and regular teeth cleanings at the dentist.
However, when plaque is not removed, it can disrupt oral bacteria in the mouth, causing enamel erosion, gum inflammation, and even problems with the immune system. Over time, it can lead to a chronic inflammatory response which can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body.
As this bacteria can reach the heart and brain, it can cause inflammation and cell damage, which can contribute to cognitive diseases such as dementia [2].
Tooth Loss Has Been Linked to Dementia
Just as gum disease has been linked to cognitive decline, so has tooth decay. Tooth loss from both gum disease and tooth decay is associated with a higher risk of dementia. In fact, people missing most or all of their natural teeth had a 48% higher risk of cognitive impairment than people without missing teeth [3].
Missing teeth aren’t just about aesthetics or even your oral health. Losing teeth due to poor oral health may result in cognitive decline, as research shows. Although the link between oral health and cognitive disease is still being studied, researchers believe bacteria and chronic inflammation may be responsible.
Don’t Ignore Your Oral Health
Brushing and flossing your teeth every day, along with a healthy diet, is a great way to care for both your body and your smile. However, don’t skip those regular visits to your dentist.
Checkups and professional teeth cleanings will help you minimize your risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss—and may just protect your brain as you age!
Sources:
1. https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/large-study-links-gum-disease-dementia
2. https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/oral-microbiome-and-brain-health/
3. https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/tooth-loss-older-adults-linked-higher-risk-dementia
