Gum Disease, Alzheimer's Disease May Be Linked
People with poor oral hygiene or gum disease may be at a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, according to a recent studies published online. (See the full article on Dentistry IQ)
All countries are experiencing an increase in the number of people over the age of 65. In the US, changing demographics suggest a much higher number of elderly in the population.
Periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) are chronic conditions that commonly affect the elderly. Numerous cross sectional studies address the oral health status of individuals with AD and dementia.
Overall, evidence indicates that Alzheimer’s patients exhibit poor oral health, including increased plaque, bleeding, and calculus than age- and gender-matched controls. While it is true that Alzheimer’s patients may be unable to adequately perform oral hygiene measures, thereby facilitating the development of periodontal disease, a potential exists for a bi-directional relationship. Researchers are now investigating the role of poor oral health and periodontal disease in the development of AD.
Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through everyday activities such as eating, chewing and tooth brushing. Once in the bloodstream, the bacteria can be carried to other parts of the body. Could oral pathogens also infect the brain with subsequent neuropathological consequences? Additionally, could the bacteremia responsible for this neuropathology be the result of chronic periodontal disease?
The researchers hypothesized that when the bacteria reach the brain, they may trigger an immune response (like they do in the mouth), which in turn results in the killing of brain cells. This immune response could be the catalyst that leads to changes in the brain, which is typical in Alzheimer’s disease. It could play a role in causing symptoms such as confusion and deterioration of memory. This new research indicates a possible link between gum disease and those who display the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and certain types of dementia.
Recently much research has examined potential associations between oral and systemic diseases, but few studies have investigated a potential link between oral disease and AD or dementia. AD is a significant health problem that will likely become even greater as the population ages. It is established that AD contributes to deterioration in oral health. Some studies suggest that oral disease contributes to AD or cognitive impairment. However, data supporting a bi-directional association is limited, and it is currently unclear which occurs first, oral disease or AD. It is possible that the lines are blurred and that each disease contributes to the other.
What this means is that the current research on this matter indicates that while all AD victims don’t have periodontal disease, some AD victims may have gum disease to blame for their condition or have had their condition sped along it’s way because of it.
Today, gum disease can be routed by laser periodontal treatment or LANAP which is relatively painless because it involves no cutting of gum tissue and no recovery time. You should become aware of the symptoms of periodontitis and make sure that your gums are checked every time you go for a dental exam or cleaning. Catching it early, before permanent damage is done or complications elsewhere in your body, is done is very important.
If you have not had an exam for periodontal disease done recently, give us a call and schedule an appointment today. We look forward to meeting you.
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Meet Dr. Gregory
Dr. Holly J. Gregory practices a full scope of periodontics with expertise ranging from dental implants to laser periodontal treatments, gum grafting, and Dr. Gregory can correct a wide variety of periodontal (gum) disease.
Our office is located at 19502 McKay Blvd., Suite 202, Humble, TX 77338. Call us today at (281) 446-9157.
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Billy – New Family Dentistry Patient
How do you describe something that is so superior to anyone else that you have ever experienced. There are no words to describe the skill of Dr. Bollman. She is the best!! I will leave it at that…
New Teeth In Just One Day
From the time I walked in, I noticed a huge difference in the way I was treated here. Dr Gregory and her staff took the time to fully explain my entire procedure and covered all the options available to me. Every pro, every con was explained in detail allowing me to make…
From a Patient Who Had Laser Gum Treatment
I’ve been a patient of Dr. Gregory for the past 6 months and it has been a very pleasant experience. She and her staff are wonderful and have made me feel very comfortable. They are always very upbeat! Dr. Gregory did an excellent job of explaining the procedure…
From a Patient Who Had Gummy Smile Reduction
I was happy to find Dr. Gregory after a previous bad experience. I was very nervous and she put me at ease about the procedure and made a follow-up call that evening to be sure all was well. I will feel very comfortable recommending her to all my friends…
From a patient who had gingival (gum) grafting to cover exposed roots
During the past several years I have had several lengthy procedures (with other doctors) and what seemed like a scary endeavor turned out to be so much better than anticipated (with Dr. Gregory). My overall experiences have been positive and I have felt that I was…
From a patient who had dental implants placed to replace a tooth-supported bridge
I am a dental implant patient. I went through the procedure with great education on the process. I was leery at first. My fixed bridge of 25+ years broke and the recommendation was to receive implants instead of a bridge, which they did not have 25 years ago…
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From a patient with medical challenges who needed emergency surgery
There are no words to describe the amount of pain I was in when I came to your office. A trip to my regular dentist revealed a cracked tooth and she referred me to you. I believe this to be a God thing because he could not have sent me…
From a patient who had gingival (gum) grafts performed to cover exposed roots
My experience with Dr. Gregory and her office and staff have been nothing but wonderful. Everyone is thoughtful, caring and professional. Dr. Gregory takes the time to discuss what she feels needs to be done, the procedure and what to expect afterwards…
From a patient who had laser periodontal treatment (LANAP)
I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate Dr. Gregory and her staff. My experiences when visiting her office have been so positive and I feel so encouraged. Normally one feels fear, especially when diagnosed with a gum disease…