Your brain is the center of everything you are. It stores your memories, enables you to make decisions, processes your emotions, determines your personality, and so much more. This precious organ is worth every effort you make to protect it. Research has shown that regular exercise, learning new things, and eating a healthy diet can all play a role in preventing Alzheimer’s. But did you know that gum disease treatment in Midtown East could also help you keep your brain healthy and functioning? Because June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, now is the perfect time for us to talk about the fascinating connection between your gums and your risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
Gum Disease and the Brain
The human body is a complex network of systems; no part is completely isolated from the others. Therefore, even some parts that on the surface have nothing to do with one another, such as the gums and the brain, can affect each other in profound and unexpected ways. Consider the results of a few studies that have linked gum disease to Alzheimer’s and dementia:
- Researchers examined brain tissue samples from 10 individuals with dementia and 10 without dementia. In four of the samples from people with dementia, they found gum disease bacteria. The bacteria were not present in any of the samples from dementia-free individuals.
- It has been discovered that one of the main types of bacteria involved in gum disease can inflame regions of the brain in individuals who already have Alzheimer’s, thus worsening the cognitive decline.
- There are two types of brain proteins associated with Alzheimer’s. One of the proteins, tau, becomes a threat when it clumps together and damages the surrounding tissue. The bacteria from gum disease produces toxic enzymes, and research has found high levels of these enzymes in brain tissue with dangerous tau accumulations.
Protect Your Brain via Gum Disease Treatment
The fact that gum disease bacteria can reach the brain does not in itself prove that it causes Alzheimer’s; more research is necessary to determine the exact nature of the relationship between the two conditions. However, it is possible that gum disease can cause Alzheimer’s. Therefore, you have reason to take your gum health seriously.
If you are exhibiting symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding, red gums or loose teeth, visit your dentist in Midtown East as soon as possible. They’ll design a custom treatment plan to get your oral health back on track. If you are not experiencing symptoms of gum disease, that doesn’t mean you can skip your next dental appointment. Regular preventive visits will play a key role in keeping your gums — and perhaps your brain — in working order.
Don’t risk that an unhealthy mouth will lead to an unhealthy brain. Taking proper care of your gums might save you from developing Alzheimer’s!
About Drs. Boyd
The Boyd family’s association with dentistry began over 120 years ago. Today, we have five talented dentists in our office who are proud to continue the legacy. They offer a broad range of services, including preventive care and periodontal therapy. To learn more about how our team can help you achieve and maintain healthy gums, contact us today at 212-755-9055.