The Oral-Systemic Connection to Alzheimer’s
Poor oral hygiene and the neglect of oral health care are associated with an increased risk for myriad health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and early death. Emerging evidence suggests that oral disease can affect what goes on in our brain – and may even potentially affect our risk for cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s. Periodontal disease and its chronic inflammation affect more than 1 billion people worldwide. Recent studies found that a higher incidence of tooth loss was associated with cognitive decline.
Another study, in 2017, of almost 28,000 Taiwanese patients reported that having chronic periodontal disease corresponded to a 1.7 times increase in the risk for Alzheimer’s disease. We cannot say, “Oh, if you have periodontitis, you will get Alzheimer’s disease. However, we know now that if you have periodontitis, the chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease is greater,” according to Dr. Anita Visser. Oral disease-causing bacteria may infect the brain and potentially contribute to neurodegeneration. P. Gingivalis is a highly toxic and aggressive species that is always associated with periodontal disease. Evidence of P. Gingivalis is found in the brain autopsies of Alzheimer’s patients.
“Already, we have seen some really severe cases of oral health problems which are missed by the doctors,” Dr. Anita Visser said. “Especially when full mouth pocket depth measuring is not done at every check up and tooth cleaning” according to a professor in geriatric dentistry at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. Until more is known, researchers stress that routine professional dental care remains one important way you can avoid the increased risk of Alzheimer’s.
Dr. Anita Visser remarked, “We have already observed instances of serious oral health issues that go unnoticed by healthcare professionals,” echoing the sentiment of a professor specializing in geriatric dentistry at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. This is particularly concerning when comprehensive assessments of full mouth pocket depth are not conducted during regular check-ups and dental cleanings. Until further insights emerge, researchers emphasize the vital role of routine professional dental care as a crucial measure to mitigate the heightened risk of Alzheimer’s disease.