A recent study was released from a prominent English medical and dental university indicating that there is a link between Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and dental health. The study is another indication that someone’s dental health has much a larger impact than just a person’s teeth, gums, and mouth.
The link with Alzheimer’s and dementia:
In the report by the University of Central Lancashire of Medicine and Dentistry, 10 patients with Alzheimer’s or dementia were studied along with 10 patients who did not have Alzheimer’s or dementia. The report discovered that 4 of the 10 Alzheimer’s or dementia patients had Porphyromonas gingivalis present in their brains. Porphyromonas gingivalis is one of the more than 200 bacteria strains associated with periodontal disease, which is the most serious form of gum disease and normally develops as plaque builds up in a person’s mouth. The lack of proper brushing, inadequate flossing, and infrequent dental cleanings and examinations, lead to periodontal disease. Although more research is underway on the issue, what is clear is that poor dental health plays a central role in the expansion of many diseases.
Other diseases:
There are many diseases which are also linked to poor dental health besides Alzheimer’s disease and dementia including:
- Heart disease and high blood pressure
- Kidney Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Diabetes
- Respiratory Disease
- Blood Cancer including leukemia
What can I do to protect my dental health?
There are many important things that a person can do to have good dental health. Brushing after every meal is essential. Flossing daily will help tremendously. In fact, a recent study concluded that proper flossing may increase a person’s lifespan anywhere from 1.5 years to 6 years.
About Lake Orion Family Dentistry
If you would like more information on dental health and its link with other diseases, ask Dr. Brad Greenfield. At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we pride ourselves in providing the highly-effective and convenient dentistry. To schedule an appointment with your Lake Orion, MI dentist, call (248) 693-6213. Also, visit our website for services, patient forms, and smile gallery. We happily serve patients in Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, Lake Orion, and neighboring communities.
