Did you know that there is more and more evidence that early onset alzheimer’s disease (or dementia) is linked to poor oral health?
Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain condition characterised by the accumulation of a substance call amyloid in the brain. The amyloid molecules coalesce inside the brain tissue and form plaques that interfere with normal cellular brain function leading to loss of cognition over time.
It has been found that patients with poor gum health (periodontal disease) have a higher risk of alzheimer’s disease. Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition of the gums, triggered by the presence of particular types of bacteria. The bacteria accumulate to harmful levels when oral hygiene is poor. When the gums are chronically inflamed, they look red and puffy and bleed easily. Over time, the gums shrink away as the underlying bone is destroyed by the inflammatory process. With less bone holding them place, the teeth loosen up and can eventually fall out.
(Read more about periodontal disease from our previous blog here).
Researchers have found that patients with high levels of the bacteria involved in gum disease are at 50% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s. It is thought that the bacteria or their toxins travel to the brain where they trigger inflammation that leads to Alzheimer’s.
Periodontitis is usually a slowly progressive disease but early signs include bleeding gums and bad breath.
Correct oral hygiene and regular professional cleans are recommended to prevent periodontitis. However, if the disease is already established, more aggressive treatment is needed to prevent progression.
If you are concerned about your gum health, especially given the links to Alzheimer’s disease, book an appointment to see your dentist for a complete oral health check.
Located in Melbourne Inner North, The Melbourne Smile Clinic is your dentist for Northcote, Thornbury, Fairfield, Westgarth, Clifton Hill, Preston and surrounding suburbs.
For more information or for an appointment, contact us on 9078 4471 or send us a message here