Healthy Gums And A Sound Mind

1. Healthy Gums And A Sound
Mind
January 15, 2020
The connection between your brain and your mouth is not something we often
think about, unless maybe you catch yourself saying something without
thinking. But the health of our mouth is also important to our brain. Recent
studies have shown the connection between the health of our gums and
dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is marked by a sticky compound that accumulates in
the brain called “beta-amyloid.” Many scientists believe that build-up of this
substance interferes with brain function, eventually killing neurons and brain
cells permanently.
Researchers are studying the associations between oral bacteria,
inflammation and the formation of beta amyloid. They are trying to determine if
people with severe gum disease are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s
disease. And another study showed that people who already had AD
experienced a six fold increase in cognitive decline when they had periodontal
disease. The oral bacteria in unhealthy gums causes inflammation that may
contribute to arterial and cognitive decline.
This isn’t to say that periodontal disease causes dementia and Alzheimer’s
disease, but that health gums contribute to healthy brains. For good mental
health, you should also maintain a healthy weight, keep cholesterol, blood
sugar and high blood pressure in check, avoid nicotine, stay active, treat
depression, eat a healthy diet, and stay socially engaged.
But studies show that your oral health plays a significant role as well. That’s
where we can help.

2. We prescribe Perio Protect to help treat periodontal disease, with results
reducing infection and inflammation in as little as three weeks. The easy-to-
use, at-home Perio Trays® comfortably deliver hydrogen peroxide deep below
the gum line. It’s easy, effective, and can help keep you in better overall
health. Both today and down the road.
In addition to regular trips to your dentist to keep your teeth and gums free of
disease, you should always consult your primary care physician for matters of
overall health and have regular physical exams. Especially if you have a
family history of dementia.