Dental Blog

New discovery: A Connection was found between Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease

BREAKING DENTAL NEWS:

There is new discovery relating to Alzheimer’s disease and what seems like a direct connection between the bacteria that cause Alzheimer’s disease and the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. The information is very new and we don’t have all the answers but this is what we do know:

• The specific bacteria that are responsible for gum disease have been detected in the brains of people who died from Alzheimer’s but are never found in the brain of a person who did not have Alzheimer’s.
• Scientists do not know yet if the bacteria actually cause the plaques to build up in the brain or if the plaque results because of the body’s reaction to the bacteria

One method for sure is to reduce those bad bacteria in the person’s mouth by proper oral hygiene at home as well as regular cleanings to control the bacteria underneath the gum line where it is hard to get to.

Here are 5 known and tested preventive care steps to reduce your risk for periodontal (gum) disease:

1. Brush two minutes, 2 times a day.

• Fluoridated toothpaste is recommended
• Don’t forget to brush along the gum line
• Use soft bristles toothbrush

2. Floss Daily! Floss Daily! Floss Daily!

• We cannot stress enough how important it is to floss. Bacteria get in between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach
• Don’t like to floss? Try a Waterpik- (we sell them in the office)-it uses a stream of pulsating water to remove plaque and food debris between teeth as well as below the gum line

3. Eat a healthy diet:

• Not only is a healthy diet good for your body, but it helps your teeth also. Sugary and acidic foods increase plaque that eat away at your enamel

4. Avoid cigarettes 

• The chemicals in cigarettes increase your chances of gum disease and oral cancer

5. Regular Dental Checkup

• You can do all the above steps, but  you MUST still get your teeth professionally and thoroughly cleaned at least every 6 months
• Hygienists and Dentist are trained to notice abnormalities in your mouth that may not show symptoms or pain that indicate the presence of harmful bacteria.
• Another extremely important reason to keep those check-ups regular to minimize the bacteria that cause gum disease and apparently can spread into the brain causing Alzheimer’s disease

It is very important for patients to use proper things at home to control the bacteria.
If you have any signs of periodontal (gum) disease, we will make proper recommendations.

To keep you comfortable during your visits we have TV ’s, blankets, headphones and you can even get your hands waxed like you are at a spa! We also provide sedation for patients who are fearful or have anxiety, learn more….