Do dirty teeth cause Alzheimers and other disease?

A study carried out at the University of Central Lancashire suggests that dirty teeth could be linked to Alzheimer’s disease.  A study of brain samples from deceased patients with dementia showed an unusually high level of porphyromonas  gingivalis, a bacteria commonly associated with gum disease.

Gum disease is aggravated by plaque biofilm being left on teeth and gums instead of being brushed away on a daily basis with a good tooth brushing technique.  As the diseased gums bleed the experts from the University believe the bacteria enter the blood stream which transports the bacteria to the brain.  Bacteria transported this way is also responsible for causing infections in people with heart problems.  Links have been demonstrated over a period of years between poor oral hygiene and diabetes and a range of other systemic diseases.

Bleeding gums is one of the most usual signs of gum disease which can lead to early tooth loss as the jaw bone is also affected by this common disease.  If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth a natural reaction is to stop brushing – DON’T – this will only make matters worse.  Continue brushing and make an appointment to your dentist or hygienist for further advice and treatment.  We can provide instruction in improving your tooth brushing technique as well as making sure you know how to use other appropriate adjutants.

A healthy mouth is a good start to a healthy life.