While health experts are raising alarms about the growing incidence and early onset of dementia, it is essential to adopt healthy practices to keep the brain health in check.
Dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities. It is not a single disease but a group of disorders, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common type. Dementia occurs due to damage or degeneration of brain cells, leading to cognitive decline that interferes with daily life.
Symptoms of dementia often begin with mild forgetfulness and confusion but gradually worsen, affecting speech, judgment, and even basic tasks like eating or dressing. Various causes of dementia include vascular dementia (caused by reduced blood flow to the brain), Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. While aging is a major risk factor, genetics, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions also play a role.
Harvard expert recommends this 4 minute activity
Dr Alp Kantarci, an expert in oral health and dementia from Harvard University recommends brushing teeth for 2 minutes each during morning and evening to prevent the onset of dementia and keep the brain healthy.
“If you neglect your oral health, you increase your risk of heart disease, your diabetes, your dementia, and your other diseases anywhere in your body,” Dr Kantarci shared in a podcast with ZOE Health’s co-founder Jonathan Wolf, the Express reported.
Several studies have established that oral health is directly linked to brain health.
Study examines 468 participants to establish link between oral health and dementia
A study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association analyzed 468 participants with clinical periodontal data, oral microbial plaque and serum samples, and brain MRIs. Study participants had received oral examinations and were assessed for periodontal bacterial plaques and serum antibodies to periodontal microbiota. After adjusting for multiple established risk factors, the researchers showed that multiple features of periodontitis were associated with unfavorable MRI findings seen in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Older adults with signs of gum disease are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s
Another study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease analyzed antibodies against 19 oral bacteria for an association with the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, diagnosis of any kind of dementia, and death from Alzheimer’s. The analysis revealed that older adults with signs of gum disease and mouth infections at baseline were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s during the study period. The researchers found that among those 65 years or older, both Alzheimer’s diagnoses and deaths were associated with antibodies against the oral bacterium P. gingivalis.
Preventive measures
As it has been established in several studies that bacteria from infected gums may enter the bloodstream and contribute to cognitive decline, to prevent this, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Routine dental check-ups help detect early issues. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and low in sugar supports gum health. Staying hydrated and avoiding smoking also reduce risks. Prioritizing oral care may help lower the chances of dementia in later life.