How is your gum health impacting your chances of developing Alzheimers disease?

Can gum disease affect memory loss and cognitive decline?

Alzheimers disease affects the brain. The disease is the most common form of dementia, individuals will suffer a gradual decline in memory, thinking, behavior and social skills. These changes will affect the persons personality and their ability to function.

`According to statistics by 2025 over 1 million UK citizens will have dementia, there are many studies that represent a similar projection for this number. Evidently the population as a whole is living longer and this means we are more likely to develop diseases as we get older. However 'more likely' does not mean 'will'. 

I am confident that more research will highlight the importance of oral health and systemic health.

Oral care does not currently carry the same levels of significance within our culture as other 'healthy habits'. Stopping smoking, reducing alcohol intake, eating less fats and undertaking daily exercise are among the biggest messages the public receives to live a healthy life. 

There is very little advice advertised in mainstream media on the significance of a healthy mouth. As a nation we are getting older, we are keeping our teeth for longer. As a dental hygienist therapist with over a decade of experience in dentistry I acknowledge daily the impact that having a healthy mouth can have on a persons overall health. When looking at a persons medical history and the diseases that they suffer with and medications they are taking I am almost nerve surprised that the individuals with the healthiest mouths often have the least medical notes. 

Your mouth is the gateway to your body. Gum disease affects the health of the supporting tissues of the teeth. When cleaning your smile it is important to thoroughly remove all plaque. Should any plaque be left undisturbed the inflammatory response may be triggered. Blood is sent to the area where the bacteria is present and your gum's become inflamed. Bleeding gums are the first sign of gum disease and should never be ignored. Often people misinterpret poor brushing for aggressive brushing and think they are doing to good of a job with their toothbrush if their gums bleed. This could not be further from the truth.

Bleeding gums are caused almost entirely because of gum disease. P.Gingivalis is a bacteria that is most commonly associated with gum disease, it has also been found in the brains of individuals suffering cognitive decline.

How is a bacteria that is usually found on the mouth now being found in the brain?

Scientists believe that this harmful bacteria is traveling though the bloodstream, thus why gum disease has been linked to a number of systemic diseases; one of which being Alzheimers disease.

To protect your smile from dental disease and your brain from damaging bacteria I urge you to reconsider the importance you place on your oral care and empower you to take back the power and reduce your chances of developing Alzheimers disease by taking care of your smile and removing plaque effectively.

For more information - download Kirstys Smile Academy in the App store or Google play today.edit.