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About 5.7 million Americans are currently diagnosed and live with Alzheimer's disease. One of the most dynamic epidemics in the United States, it is becoming increasingly clear that Alzheimer's is not quite what it seems. In fact, researchers are starting to wonder if it is really just a degenerative brain disease. There is growing suspicion that the problems that lead to Alzheimer's disease could come from on the outside of the brain.
Some people call Alzheimer's disease type III diabetes because of the growing link between degenerative brain disease and insulin resistance. However, recent research has revealed another interesting link with Alzheimer's: the health of your gums.
Study on Gum Disease and Alzheimer's Disease
A recent study has shown that the pathogen badociated with gum disease, Porphyromonas gingivalis, is also found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease.
The theory is that this bacterium creates destructive enzymes, called Gingipains, that infiltrate the brain and cause inflammatory lesions. As part of the research, over 90% of Alzheimer's samples contained a form of gingipain. These inflammatory enzymes have also been identified in cerebrospinal fluid samples.
This is not the first time this bacterium has been badociated with other more serious chronic diseases. In fact, 100% of patients with cardiovascular disease have Porphyromonas gingivalis colonizing their arteries.
Of course, these things are not necessarily a sign of a causal link, but they are worth pointing out.
Preventing Gum Disease for a Healthier Brain
The cause of gum disease (or periodontal disease) is relatively simple. Plaque and bacteria build up between the teeth and cause inflammation of the gums and the tooth itself.
According to recent research, the release of gingipain by the gingival bacteria could potentially accumulate in the brain. In fact, they seem to be badociated with the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.
There is an increasingly common theory that beta-amyloid functions as an antimicrobial peptide, suggesting a possible infectious cause of Alzheimer's disease rather than a simple degeneration. That's why many researchers wonder if Alzheimer's disease is caused by a bacterial infection.
Thus, these regular dental exams can be even more important than you realize. The best way to reduce your risk of gum disease is to brush your teeth and floss regularly and to comply with your regular dental checkups. You will not only have a healthier mouth, but also good oral hygiene can pay dividends for the health of your brain.
In connection with Care2
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