Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround the teeth and hold them firmly into place. Poor oral hygiene is the number one cause of this problem, but there are numerous other conditions in the body that it is related to, including Alzheimer’s disease. Read on to learn more about the relationship between the two and what you can do to keep your gums in excellent health.
How Are Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Related?
There are multiple different stages of gum disease. The first one is less severe and known as gingivitis. This condition is very common and affects nearly half of the American population over the age over 30. Fortunately, gingivitis is usually reversible, and it’s possible to return back to optimal oral health. However, when it is left to progress, gingivitis can turn to periodontitis. At this time, subgingival packets develop between the teeth and gums. These spaces fill up with bacteria and become nearly impossible to eliminate entirely.
There are several types of bacteria that are found in periodontitis that is also present in the brain of people who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. These bacteria are known as Porphyromonas gingivalis. An American pharmaceutical company, Cortexyme, did a study on mice to show how these bacteria spread to the brain and result in the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
How Is Gum Disease Prevented
Gum disease is incredibly common, but it is also easily preventable. Here are some steps you can take in order to lessen your risk.
- Brush twice a day: Brush two times a day in order to remove food particles and plaque from your teeth.
- Floss daily: Your toothbrush can’t reach all of the surfaces in your mouth. You should use dental floss to remove food particles from between the teeth and beneath the gumline.
- Rinse with mouthwash: By using a mouth rinse, you can wash away food debris that you missed when brushing and flossing.
- See your dentist: When you head to the dental office for regular cleanings and checkups, your hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and calculus buildups. Your dentist will be on the look out for early signs of periodontal disease so it can be treated with gum disease therapy before becoming more serious.
Gum disease is linked to many conditions throughout the body, but with proper oral hygiene, you can avoid this issue all together. This way, you can show off a strong, healthy smile for many years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Skupny earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and has been working in the field for over a decade. He is a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the International Team for Implantology, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, as well as a member of the Naples Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about gum disease therapy or to schedule an appointment at his office in Naples, visit his website or call (239) 261-5566.