You are likely already aware that regularly brushing and flossing your teeth twice every day can prevent dental problems, but did you know that it can also benefit your brain? According to recent studies, developing gum disease and/or losing your teeth are linked with other more serious medical conditions. Keep reading to learn more about 3 ways that your oral status impacts your brain health!
#1- Expedited Brain Shrinkage
According to a study published in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology in July of 2023, gum disease and tooth loss were linked to a shrinking hippocampus. This is the part of your brain that controls thinking and memory and is associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers conducted an experiment in which they scanned the brains of participants to measure the size of their hippocampus at the start of the study and then again 4 years later. They also counted the number of teeth each person had as well as notate their periodontal probing depth, which determines the amount of healthy gum tissue.
The results demonstrated that people with severe gum disease and more missing teeth showed a faster rate of brain shrinkage than those without the same oral problems. It was calculated that each tooth lost equated to nearly one year of brain aging. Even worse than that, those with advanced gum disease showed an equivalent of 1.3 years’ worth of aging.
#2- Increased Damage to White Matter
Another study reported in 2023 revealed that people with a genetic predisposition to cavities and missing teeth were more likely to have brain health issues. Specifically, those with poor oral conditions were more likely to have accumulated impairment to their white matter which can hinder memory, balance, and mobility.
They discovered that people who were more prone to have cavities or required dentures had a 24% increase in changes to the amount of white matter visible in MRI images. They also showed additional harm to the fine architecture of the brain with a 43% change in the microstructural damage scores as seen in the scans.
#3- Enhanced Vulnerability to Stroke
These findings were reported at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference that year because these findings are associated with increased risk of strokes. These occur when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced, which prevents it from getting the oxygen it needs.
Many medical professionals believe this is partly due to gum disease. When your body fights the bacteria causing periodontitis, it raises inflammation throughout all of your systems. This raises your risk of developing serious issues like heart attacks, strokes, dementia, and even certain cancers.
If you’re worried about the state of your smile, contact your dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. They’ll identify any areas of concern and do their best to remedy them before it’s too late!
About the Practice
At Baldwin Family Dental, you and your loved ones benefit from two dental experts who work together to prioritize quality care in a comfortable setting. They provide a wide range of services so whether you need to have cavities filled, dental implants, or periodontal therapy, they can help. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, you’re welcome to contact the office on the website or by calling (850) 215-0128.