Poor oral health may be associated with a higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), according to a report recently released from the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health.
Therefore, improving one's oral health may help prevent or reduce the symptoms of these life-altering brain diseases, according to the report, which was released on April 24.
"As poor oral health is linked to an increased risk for being diagnosed with ADRD, it is all the more important to determine whether improvements in oral health may prevent or reduce the symptoms of this disease," wrote the authors.
Over the years, studies have suggested multiple ties between oral health and brain diseases.
For instance, studies have shown that adults between the ages of 50 and 80 with Alzheimer's have worse gum health, including more plaque, deeper gum pockets, increased bone loss around teeth, and more gum bleeding compared to those without the disease, according to the report.
Research suggests a connection between periodontal infection and Alzheimer's, particularly with antibodies against the bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis). The buildup of beta-amyloid protein in response to this infection may impair brain cell communication, leading to memory loss and confusion.
Additionally, adults with Alzheimer's tend to face higher dental care costs, particularly for procedures like fillings and oral surgery compared to those without the disease. Social factors like lower education levels and lack of access to regular medical and oral health care can negatively impact oral health and increase the risk of ADRD, they wrote.
Despite the growing body of research, there is no conclusive evidence on whether oral healthcare can prevent Alzheimer's or improve associated symptoms. Therefore, more research is needed to determine whether periodontal treatment or overall improved oral health can lower the risk of developing ADRD, they wrote.
"As poor oral health is linked to an increased risk for being diagnosed with ADRD, it is all the more important to determine whether improvements in oral health may prevent or reduce the symptoms of this disease, which affects millions of individuals and their caregivers each year," they concluded.
