At Tribeca Dental Studio, we believe in the profound impact that oral health has on overall wellness. Recent research has brought forward an intriguing link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease, revealing new insights that could change the way we think about brain health and oral hygiene.
Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease: A New Connection
New research published in Science Advances suggests that gum disease, or more specifically, a harmful bacterium called Porphyromonas gingivalis, may play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. This bacteria, which is responsible for chronic periodontitis (gum disease), was found in the brains of deceased Alzheimer’s patients. The discovery has raised a critical question: could poor oral health contribute to the onset of Alzheimer’s?
What the Study Found
The study revealed that when mice were infected with Porphyromonas gingivalis, the bacteria not only colonized their gums but also traveled to their brains. There, it triggered the production of amyloid beta—a protein often associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This discovery provides further evidence for the theory that Alzheimer’s may have infectious origins, as opposed to being purely a neurodegenerative disorder.
Even more surprising, researchers found toxic enzymes from the bacteria in the brains of individuals who had Alzheimer’s-related brain changes but hadn’t been diagnosed with dementia yet. This suggests that the infection could begin years before noticeable symptoms of Alzheimer’s appear, meaning that gum disease might be a contributing factor to the disease long before it’s diagnosed.
What This Means for You
This research highlights the importance of oral hygiene in not just protecting your teeth but also in potentially preventing neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s. While more studies are needed to fully understand the link between gum disease and Alzheimer’s, the connection emphasizes a key takeaway: healthy gums and teeth are more important than ever for your overall health.
Taking care of your gums is critical, and here at Tribeca Dental Studio, we’re committed to providing the best care to help you prevent gum disease. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are simple steps you can take to protect your oral health—and potentially your brain health.
Potential New Treatments: A Glimmer of Hope
In light of these findings, researchers are hopeful that future treatments could focus on both reducing bacterial infection and amyloid beta accumulation in the brain. One such potential treatment, developed by the pharmaceutical company Cortexyme, is a compound called COR388. This treatment has shown promise in reducing both bacterial infections and amyloid beta in animal studies. Though human trials are still needed, it signals a potential breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research.
The Takeaway: Protect Your Teeth, Protect Your Brain
While we are still in the early stages of understanding how gum disease may contribute to Alzheimer’s, this research underscores an essential message: oral hygiene matters more than ever. Keeping your gums healthy may not only protect your smile but could also support your long-term brain health.
At Tribeca Dental Studio, we encourage all of our patients to prioritize their oral health. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—regular check-ups can help prevent gum disease and its potential effects on your overall health. Let’s work together to keep your smile—and your mind—healthy for years to come.
Learn more about the full research and its findings here: Read the full research
