The link between gum disease and the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia

A groundbreaking long-term study has been conducted in the world of neurology and oral health. The study, conducted by researchers in Japan and published in The Journal of Clinical Periodontology, one of the respected publications of the medical world, revealed the strong link between gum diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. Scientists who tracked the neurological and oral health data of 1,400 participants for 10 years found that inflammation in gum tissue directly affects brain functions.

THE RISK OF ALZHEIMER IS 61% MORE IN THOSE WITH BLEEDING GUMS

According to research data, individuals who experience regular gum bleeding (BOP) and deep gum pockets are 54% more likely to develop dementia within 10 years. When it comes to Alzheimer's disease, the most common type of dementia, the risk has reached an alarming 61%.

Experts reported that the rate of dementia development in patients with the most advanced gum recession was 59%, and noted that the destruction of oral tissues accelerated the vascular and cellular collapse in the brain.

INfrequent brushing of teeth triggers bacterial inflammation in the body

The study emphasized that infrequent brushing of teeth leads to plaque accumulation under the gums and an increase in bacterial load. It was announced that these bacteria, which enter the bloodstream through the mouth, trigger systemic inflammation throughout the body and cause damage to the brain tissue by passing through the blood-brain barrier.

The research team reported that preventing gingivitis (periodontitis) could be a critical protective shield in reducing dementia cases for public health.

WARNING FROM EXPERTS: BRUSHING 3 TIMES A DAY AND USE OF ELECTRIC BRUSH

Commenting on the subject, University of Minnesota Faculty of Dentistry faculty member Prof. Dr. Alpdoğan Kantarcı stated that protecting oral health prevents not only teeth but also more than 50 systemic diseases.

Prof. Dr. Kantarcı stated that the oral cavity directly interacts with the brain, joints and intestinal health; He recommended brushing teeth three times a day with the correct technique and choosing electric toothbrushes, which are more effective in cleaning plaque.