Alzheimer’s Disease linked to poor dental health

A recent study done by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) in the UK, has found that people with poor oral hygiene or gum disease could be at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared with those who practice good dental hygiene.

Researchers discovered signs of the bacterium, known as Porphyromonas gingivalis, were found in four out of 10 samples of brain tissue from Alzheimer’s patients, while no signs of the bug were found in 10 brains from people of similar age who never developed dementia, according to the results of the study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. This “bug” is usually associated with chronic periodontal disease.

“The findings support a theory that bacteria in the mouth enter the bloodstream through chewing or tooth removal and end up in other parts of the body including the brain, over time, the chemicals produced by the bacteria could build up and contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s,” said UCLan School of Medical

Dentistry Professor and lead British researcher St John Crean.

This bacterium is found in oral cavities and enters the blood stream through a variety of daily activities, such as chewing, eating and brushing teeth.

The best way to reduce the risk of dementia is to lead a healthy lifestyle. Make sure you practice good dental hygiene: brushing your teeth twice a day, making sure you have regular dental cleanings, flossing daily, and eating healthy.

To schedule you’re next dental cleaning with the office of Dr. Shane McDowell, please call 239-936-0597 or visit our website at http://myfortmyersdentist.com/appointment/ to request an appointment.