Could Gum Disease Be Linked to Alzheimer’s?

The Surprising Connection Between Oral Health and Brain Health

When we think about the importance of brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, we often focus on preventing tooth decay and gum disease and keeping our smiles bright. While this is tremendously important, emerging research is revealing that good oral hygiene could be playing another critical role — helping to protect our brain health.

A 2019 scientific study has uncovered a potential link between chronic gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease, suggesting that what happens in your mouth may have far-reaching consequences for your mind.

The Science Behind the Connection

Researchers investigating the cause of Alzheimer’s have identified the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis — a key bacteria involved in chronic periodontitis (a chronic form of gum disease) — in the brain tissue of people who had Alzheimer’s disease. This discovery marks a significant development in our understanding of Alzheimer’s, which has long been considered a purely neurodegenerative condition.

In laboratory experiments, scientists infected mice with P. gingivalis and found that the bacteria not only reached the brain but also triggered the production of amyloid beta — the sticky protein commonly associated with the brain plaques seen in Alzheimer’s patients. Even more concerning, toxic enzymes released by the bacteria were detected in people who showed signs of Alzheimer’s-related brain changes before any dementia symptoms had developed.

These findings suggest that gum disease may play a role in initiating or accelerating Alzheimer’s, potentially years before any cognitive symptoms appear.

What This Means for You

While more human trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of treatments targeting this bacteria, the takeaway is clear: maintaining your oral health may be more important than ever.

Here at Wickham Terrace Dental, we’ve always advocated for preventive dental care — not just to protect your teeth and gums, but to support your overall health and wellbeing. This new research highlights just how interconnected our body systems truly are.

Oral Health as a Gateway to Overall Health

The mouth is a window to the insides of your body. Chronic gum disease has previously been linked to other systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease. Now, Alzheimer’s disease may join that list — adding another compelling reason to prioritise your dental hygiene routine.

Here’s how you can lower your risk:

• Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
  
  
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth and below the gum line.
  
  
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleans and gum health checks. We recommend seeing your dentist every six months — it’s a simple way to catch potential problems early and stay on top of your health.
  
  
• Avoid smoking, which increases your risk of periodontal disease.
  
  
• Maintain a healthy diet that supports both oral and cognitive health.

 A Healthier Smile, A Healthier Mind

The potential connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s may still be under investigation, but it reinforces what we already know — that oral health plays a crucial role in our quality of life, now and in the future.

If it’s been a while since your last dental check-up or you’re concerned about the health of your gums, our friendly team at Wickham Terrace Dental is here to help. We offer comprehensive periodontal care and personalised advice to keep your smile — and your health — on the right track.

Take the next step in protecting your health. Get in touch with us today and let’s work together to safeguard your smile — and your mind. Click here to Book Online.