Oral health is often considered separate from overall health, but recent studies indicate that poor oral health can contribute to the development of various systemic diseases, including Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting cognitive functions such as memory, thinking, and behavior. The link between oral health and Alzheimer’s is becoming and increasingly researched topic.
One major connection between oral health and Alzheimer’s is chronic inflammation. Gum diseases, such as periodontitis, are caused by bacterial infections that trigger the body’s immune response. This response is not limited to the mouth but can spread through the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation. Research suggests that this chronic inflammation can damage brain tissue and increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
Furthermore, several studies have found that bacteria commonly found in problematic gums, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, can enter the brain through the bloodstream or nerves. The presence of these bacteria in the brain can trigger the accumulation of abnormal proteins called beta-amyloid, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s. In other words, infections that start in the mouth can potentially seriously impact brain health.
Lifestyle habits that affect oral health can also serve as shared risk factors. For example, bad habits such as smoking, a high-sugar diet, and poor dental hygiene not only worsen oral health but also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes—two conditions that have long been associated with Alzheimer’s. Thus, maintaining oral health impacts the mouth and can help prevent or delay more serious complications.
Good oral health prevention is an important step in minimizing risks. This includes brushing teeth twice a day, using dental floss, and visiting the dentist regularly. Further research also supports the importance of treating gum disease early to reduce inflammation and infection that can spread to other parts of the body.
Awareness of the connection between oral health and Alzheimer’s should encourage the public to pay more attention to oral hygiene. By maintaining good oral health, we protect our teeth and gums help preserve brain health and improve the quality of life in the future. This contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being and Goal 4: Quality Education.
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
