Oral Health Linked to Alzheimer's Disease
Posted on Tue, Jan 31, 2012
From the time we are born we are in a battle against bacteria. Shortly after birth, our oral cavities becomes covered with a veneer of bacteria that remains for a lifespan. Much of this bacteria is helpful and when well-balanced can keep us more healthy, but a combination of some bad luck and dental neglect can unleash severe consequences.
It been established that low-grade inflammation from oral and gingival disease can increase the risk of heart disease. Inflammation instigated by the exposure to bacteria can harm the heart and arteries leading to hardening of the arteries and premature heart disease
Recent evidence has also correlated Alzheimer's disease to oral hygiene. Bacteria overload from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and create colonies within the brain that may lead to dementing illnesses. In addition, the bacteria can go directly from the mouth along cranial nerves into the brain cavity likewise instigating bacterial colonies that create an inflammatory reaction within the brain tissue, possibly increasing the chance of developing neuro-fiborous tangles, one of the elements believed to lead to Alzheimer's disease.
While there's much we don't know about dementing illnesses, this preliminary evidence about the association between oral health, heart disease and dementing illnesses is enough to justify vigorous attention to our teeth and gums not only for the aesthetic value but for the objective of a longer and healthier life span
There's long been an appreciation between oral health and the overall health of an animal organism. Note the tradition of looking at the mouth of a horse to judge its overall quality and health. Who would've thought the same would be true for human beings and that it could hold one of the keys to living a longer lifespan with an intact brain and intact heart (not to mention intact incisors!)
Flossing regularly takes on a new importance and significance when we contemplate that this action may be extending our life and protecting our brain and heart.
The proper use of a toothbrush-one that is not too hard to damage our gums, may also help us live longer.
Visiting the dentist on a regular basis, at least twice per year for a thorough cleaning is more than just a luxury it is an essential component in life extension, brain and heart preservation.
-Dr. Stephen Petteruti
The Petteruti Center for Life Extension is located in Warwick, Rhode Island. Dr. Stephen Petteruti is the Medical Director who is board certified in Family Practice and Bariatric (medical weight loss) Medicine as well as completing a fellowship in Anti-Aging. To lean how we can help you achieve your healthy weight and life extension goals, call us at 401-921-5934.