New Study Links Gum Inflammation to Alzheimer's Disease
New research suggests a link between gum inflammation and Alzheimer's disease. A bacterium called Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), commonly found in gum disease, may contribute to the onset of this devastating condition.
Gum inflammation, or gingivitis, is the initial stage of gum disease. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. A recent discovery indicates that this inflammation can lead to the production of beta-amyloid protein plaques, a significant indicator of Alzheimer's.
P. gingivalis, a bacterium present in gum disease, can travel from the mouth to the brain. It has been found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients and can destroy nerve cells. While there are no public clinical studies conducted by dentists to test if treating P. gingivalis infections can reduce or slow down dementia progression, the link is intriguing.
Older adults with signs of gum inflammation have a higher likelihood of developing Alzheimer's. P. gingivalis is not the only bacterium involved; others like Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia also play a role. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, medication use, and genetics can contribute to gum inflammation, making regular dental care and good hygiene habits crucial.
The potential link between gum inflammation and Alzheimer's disease underscores the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular dental flossing, along with professional dental care, may help reduce the risk of developing this debilitating condition. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and explore potential treatments.
