{"id":258,"date":"2019-03-08T19:01:16","date_gmt":"2019-03-08T19:01:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dentalgroupwest.com\/blog\/?p=258"},"modified":"2021-08-30T15:17:03","modified_gmt":"2021-08-30T15:17:03","slug":"dentist-in-toledo-gum-health-and-alzheimers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dentalgroupwest.com\/blog\/dentist-in-toledo-gum-health-and-alzheimers\/","title":{"rendered":"A Dentist in Toledo Explains the Link Between Oral Health and Alzheimer\u2019s"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"an<\/a>As you grow older, the changes in your hair, facial and body shape, and even lifestyle can catch you off guard. But, what about the changes that occur with your mind? While yes, it is natural to be a bit more forgetful as you age, it could be that you are showing early signs of Alzheimer\u2019s disease. And what about your oral health? Are you taking care of it with good oral habits? A dentist in Toledo<\/a> explains how the status of your oral hygiene can impact brain function and the possibility for Alzheimer\u2019s.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

The Connection Between Alzheimer\u2019s and Gum Disease<\/h2>\n

According to a 2019 article in New Scientist, dementia has become the fifth largest cause of death in the world, and Alzheimer\u2019s constitutes nearly 70% of the cases. A study at the New York University College of Dentistry discovered that gum disease can increase the chances of Alzheimer\u2019s and its association with cognitive dysfunction. The reason: inflammation.<\/p>\n

When you experience gum disease, you can expect red, puffy, and inflamed gums. Your body is trying to fight off infection, hence, the swelling. While early stages like gingivitis can be reversed, more advanced stages of gum disease, as well as chronic inflammation can cause problems with your overall health, including your brain.<\/p>\n

If oral bacteria travels through your bloodstream, it can lead to harmful issues throughout your body, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. However, if it can affect these areas of your body, it will also negatively impact your brain. If inflammation of the brain occurs, your body\u2019s immune response will be to fight, but in effect, will kill neurons instead of protecting them.<\/p>\n

Preventative Methods to Ensure Good Oral Health<\/h2>\n

It may sound like a lot to remember, but practicing good oral habits are crucial to your overall health. If your family member is the one suffering, it may be difficult for them to remember to care for their oral health, so find ways to help them out.<\/p>\n

It is truly astounding how interconnected everything is, but if your oral health is in poor shape, it may begin to affect the rest of your body before long. If you want to keep yours or your loved one\u2019s teeth and gums in good shape, make sure these preventative steps are taken:<\/p>\n