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How Good Oral Health May Help Protect Against Alzheimer’s

added on: September 14, 2023
John Highsmith, DDS

Maintaining good oral health by brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist in Clyde has long been associated with benefits such as a bright smile and fresh breath. However, researchers have been uncovering an even bigger reason to take care of your teeth. Studies continually show a potential connection between oral health and overall well-being, particularly in relation to cognitive health. A growing body of evidence suggests that there might be a link between good oral hygiene and a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder. Let’s take a look at how taking care of your teeth and gums might play a role in safeguarding your brain health.

The Oral-Brain Connection

The mouth serves as the gateway to the body, and its health can impact various aspects of overall health, so it’s not surprising that the oral-brain connection has caught the attention of scientists. Poor oral hygiene can lead to the accumulation of harmful bacteria in the mouth, causing gum disease and other oral infections. Interestingly, these oral pathogens don’t just stay confined to the mouth – they can find their way into the bloodstream and potentially reach the brain.

Inflammation and Alzheimer’s

One of the key factors linking oral health and Alzheimer’s disease is inflammation. Chronic inflammation is believed to contribute to the development and progression of various diseases, including Alzheimer’s. Gum disease triggers an inflammatory response in the body, and if left untreated, this inflammation can spread to other parts of the body, including the brain.

Research has shown that the presence of specific oral bacteria associated with gum disease can be detected in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. These bacteria might contribute to the formation of beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, by activating the immune system and promoting inflammation in the brain. Therefore, maintaining good oral health could potentially help reduce the risk of chronic inflammation and its potential impact on brain health.

The Blood-Brain Barrier

The blood-brain barrier is a protective network of blood vessels that acts as a barrier between the bloodstream and the brain. It prevents harmful substances from entering the brain while allowing essential nutrients to pass through. However, certain infections and inflammatory responses can compromise the integrity of this barrier, potentially allowing harmful agents to reach the brain.

Oral bacteria associated with gum disease can release toxins that may weaken the blood-brain barrier. This weakening can make it easier for harmful substances to enter the brain, triggering an immune response that contributes to inflammation and damage. By maintaining good oral health, you might be able to reduce the risk of these oral bacteria infiltrating the brain and compromising the blood-brain barrier’s function.

Preventive Strategies

While research into the link between oral health and Alzheimer’s is still ongoing, there are several steps you can take to prioritize your oral hygiene and potentially support your cognitive health:

Brush & Floss Regularly: The foundation of good oral hygiene lies in regular brushing and flossing. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and don’t forget to floss to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.

Visit Your Dentist in Clyde: Regular dental check-ups are essential for detecting and addressing any oral health issues early on. Your dentist can help you maintain healthy gums and catch any signs of gum disease.

Eat A Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can contribute to both oral and overall health. Avoid sugary snacks and beverages that can promote tooth decay.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can lead to plaque formation.

Avoid Smoking & Excessive Alcohol: Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption are linked to increased risk of gum disease and can have negative effects on oral health.

The connection between oral health and cognitive health is an exciting area of research that holds promise for our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. While more studies are needed to establish a definitive link between good oral hygiene and reduced Alzheimer’s risk, the existing evidence suggests that prioritizing oral health might have more far-reaching benefits than we previously imagined. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you could potentially be taking a proactive step towards protecting your brain health in the long run. So, don’t underestimate the power of a healthy smile or the importance of visits to your dentist in Clyde – they could be a window to a healthier brain.

Welcoming new patients from Clyde and Asheville.

About The Author
Dr. John M. Highsmith

Dr. John M. Highsmith boasts advanced training in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He is one of only five accredited members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry in North Carolina, a diplomate of The International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and a Fellow at the Misch Implant Institute. He is affiliated with the American Dental Association, the Western NC Dental Society, and the NC Dental Society. Dr. Highsmith pursued continuing education courses at the Las Vegas Institute (LVI) for Advanced Dental Education and served as a clinical instructor there, teaching his dental peers modern techniques in cosmetic and functional dentistry.