Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease

The Surprising Link Between Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease

We all know that brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but did you know that taking care of your mouth could also protect your brain? Recent studies have shown that there is a link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease. This discovery has sent shockwaves through the healthcare community and has led to a flurry of research into the connection between oral health and cognitive function. In this blog post, we’ll explore the surprising link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease and what you can do to protect yourself.

Periodontal Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease

Research has found that gum disease is associated with changes in brain cells and neuroinflammation, which are both key factors in Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists at the Forsyth Institute have conducted research that shows a strong correlation between gum disease and the development of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. Gum disease activates an inflammatory response in the brain that leads to changes in the microglial cells, the cells responsible for destroying amyloid plaques in the brain. When these cells are activated by oral bacteria, they become overstimulated, leading to neuroinflammation, and altering their ability to deal with amyloid plaques and other harmful substances.

Microglial Cells and Amyloid Plaque Formation

Microglial cells are found in the brain, where they play an essential role in defending against harmful substances like amyloid plaque. However, when these cells are exposed to oral bacteria, they can become overstimulated and trigger an excessive immune response, leading to inflammation. This over-response can make it impossible for the microglial cells to digest the amyloid plaque, leading to its accumulation in the brain, which can cause cognitive impairment. Obesity also exacerbates this problem as excess body fat overstimulates microglia.

Gum Disease and Lesions

Gum disease can lead to lesions between the gums and teeth, which allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, including the brain. These bacteria can cause an immune response, leading to the activation of microglial cells and inflammation. The inflammation can damage the brain and lead to cognitive decline.

Mouse Oral Bacteria Study

Scientists have been able to track the progression of periodontal disease in mice using mouse oral bacteria. They found that the introduction of oral bacteria led to the activation of microglial cells in the brain and the promotion of neuroinflammation, which impaired the brain’s ability to deal with harmful substances like amyloid plaques. This confirms the link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Conclusion

The link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease is a significant discovery that should not be ignored. Studies have shown that controlling oral inflammation may be crucial in preventing neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. By taking care of your oral health through regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, you can protect your brain and potentially prevent cognitive decline. While more research is needed in finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, taking care of your dental health could be an important step toward protecting your cognitive function and preventing Alzheimer’s disease.