There's A Link Between Gum Disease & Dementia Risk: What It Means For Your Oral Health

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a widespread condition that impacts the tissues surrounding the teeth. Gum disease is primarily associated with oral health issues, such as bleeding gums, tooth loss, and bad breath. However, emerging research suggests that gum disease may also be associated with an increased risk of dementia1. Yep, there's a link between the health of your mouth and the health of your brain. Here's what to know.

The researchers looked at mice and discovered that this bacteria caused an unusual increase in microglial cells in the brain. These immune cells help keep the central nervous system healthy by clearing damaged neurons and infections. However, having too many of these cells can also cause inflammation, which may worsen the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. 

Caring for your gums is essential for maintaining good oral health—and as this emerging research shows, it may contribute to your brain health too. Here are some tips to help you keep yours in great shape: 

A study from the Journal of Periodontology suggests that flossing first and then brushing is the ideal order for reducing interdental plaque. No matter the order, I can't stress it enough: making sure you are brushing and flossing is key.

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps support gum health (and brain health!). Certain nutrients, such as zinc and vitamin C, are particularly important for your gums. Nutrients like vitamin A and vitamin E, and antioxidants like beta-carotene also contribute to gum health by supporting the body's natural immune response and reducing inflammation3.

Drinking plenty of water helps wash food particles and bacteria from your mouth, reducing the risk of gum disease. It also helps maintain saliva production, which is important for keeping your mouth moist and aiding in digestion.

An antimicrobial mouthwash can help maintain good oral hygiene by reducing the bacteria that cause halitosis (bad breath), plaque, and gum disease. When choosing a mouthwash, I recommend looking for one containing ingredients like chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, or essential oils like eucalyptol, menthol, and thymol. These ingredients help kill bacteria and reduce plaque buildup when used as part of your regular oral hygiene routine.

To help protect your teeth and gums, limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks. When you do consume them, try to do so in moderation and follow it up with good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing. Additionally, drinking water after consuming acidic or sugary foods helps rinse away some of the harmful acids and sugars, reducing their impact on your teeth and gums.

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important for maintaining gum health. Your dentist can identify early signs of gum disease and provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Massaging your gums with a soft-bristled toothbrush or your fingers can improve blood circulation to your gum tissue, promoting better gum health. Try gently massaging your gums in a circular motion for a few minutes each day. When you do this regularly, you can thicken your gum epithelium, the outer layer of gum tissue that protects your gums from harmful bacteria. 

The link between gum disease and dementia presents a compelling area of research that highlights the connection between oral health and overall well-being. Further research is needed to understand the complexities of the gum disease-dementia link fully. However, these findings underscore the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices not only for the health of your teeth and gums but also for your cognition. Be sure to floss and brush regularly, eat a balanced diet that limits sugar and acidic foods, drink plenty of water, and stay on top of your dental checkups. Your smile—and brain—will thank you!