Gum Disease and Alzheimers As we age, our bodies can deteriorate in a variety of ways. One area increasingly being discussed among scientific and medical circles is the potential link between gum disease and Alzheimer's disease. While correlations have been drawn between the two conditions, some debate remains about whether periodontal illness directly contributes to or increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's later in life.What is Alzheimer’s?Alzheimer's is a progressive and irreversible brain disorder that can lead to memory loss, personality changes, and a decline in thinking abilities. It affects about six million people in the U.S., most aged 65 and older. The exact cause of Alzheimer's is unknown; scientists believe it occurs due to complex interactions between genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors that alter certain chemical pathways in the brain related to learning, memory, and other cognitive functions. Symptoms usually appear after age 60 and worsen as nerve cells deteriorate. Symptoms of Alzheimer's include:
What is the Link Between Gum Disease and Alzheimer's?While gum disease may not always be seen as a possible indicator of Alzheimer's, recent studies have found a strong association between the two. A study published in the journal of Frontiers in Aging and Neuroscience suggests that there is a link between gum disease caused by the bacterium fusobacterium nucleatum and Alzheimer's disease. The study also found that fusobacterium nucleatum could travel from the mouth to the brain, triggering an immune response that leads to the accumulation of amyloid beta plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. The researchers suggested that gum disease caused by fusobacterium nucleatum, if left untreated or poorly treated, could exacerbate the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Other research suggests that older adults over the age of 60 having gum disease were more prone to Alzheimer's as compared to the ones with no or fewer gum diseases. At Gresham Dental Excellence, our highly-qualified dentist Dr. Gary S. Cooke suggests taking proper care of your oral health, or else it can lead to major issues in the future. What Are the Risk Factors for Gum Disease?Gum disease is an infection in the gum tissues caused by plaque. Risk factors include smoking and tobacco use, poor nutrition, stress, genetics, use of certain medications, aging, crooked teeth, and a weakened immune system. Poor oral hygiene habits like not brushing and flossing regularly create further risks. Regular dental check ups at Gresham Dental Excellence can help identify any signs of gum disease, allowing treatment to begin as soon as possible. Preventive measures to avoid gum disease is important for a healthy mouth; brushing twice daily and flossing at least once daily can reduce risk significantly. What Are Some Treatment Strategies for Gum Disease?Gresham Dental Excellence offers various treatment strategies for patients suffering from gum disease. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment modalities may include deep cleaning, medications, and surgical procedures. During a deep cleaning, the dentist or hygienist can use a scaler to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gum line. The dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to help treat gum inflammation or an antibacterial mouth rinse. For more serious cases of bone or tissue damage, the dentist may recommend periodontal surgery to restore oral health. To schedule a consultation at Gresham Dental Excellence, call us at (971) 431-7292 today. |
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