In recent studies, British researchers have found a link between periodontal (gum) disease and Alzheimer’s disease. They discovered a bacteria linked to gum disease called porphyromonas gingivalis that travels up to the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. Chronic gum disease affects nearly 50 percent of American adults over the age of 30 and 70 percent of those age 65 and over.

It was also found that inflamed gums increased the risk of cognitive impairment associated with Alzheimer’s. The theory is that the chemicals from the bacteria (p. gingivalis) may generate inflammation in the brain cells involved with Alzheimer’s leading to nerve cell damage and destruction. A study showed that seniors who did not brush daily were up to 65 percent more likely to develop dementia than those who brushed daily. Therefore, taking simple steps such as brushing and flossing can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.

Tips for Simple Oral Care:

• Brush at least twice a day.
• Brush both back and front of teeth and your gums.
• Floss at least once a day.
• Know the symptoms of gum disease (such as bleeding when brushing or tenderness in your gums).
• Visiting your dentist twice a year for professional checkup and cleaning.
• Avoid smoking.

Brush twice a day. Floss once a day. And don’t forget to schedule your appointment with Greenspoint Dental.