As researchers learn more about the body, they discover increasingly close connections between its systems. It’s important to learn about this research so you can better care for your health! For instance, recent studies have shown a strong link between your oral health and the brain! Those articles can seem very long, so here are some of the takeaways on how your dental health affects your brain health.
Link Between Gum Disease and Memory
In 2023, the American Academy of Neurology published a journal showing how gum disease and tooth loss are linked to brain shrinkage in areas that control thinking and memory. The study involved 172 people who all underwent dental exams, MRI scans, and memory tests.
The researchers measured the depth of their gum tissue, brain volume in areas related to memory, and the number of teeth each participant had. With this information, they discovered correlations between tooth loss, gum disease, and brain aging. Mild gum disease with fewer teeth than average showed faster shrinkage, while severe gum disease with more teeth than average also presented a faster decline in the same areas.
How Poor Oral Health is Linked to Declining Brain Health
In another study in 2023 at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference, researchers presented data that showed a link between genetic predisposition to oral health issues and an increased risk of stroke.
A group of researchers analyzed data from about 40,000 adults in the U.K. Biobank (a large-scale biomedical database). With this information, they found that those who are genetically at a higher risk of cavities and missing teeth were more likely to accumulate damage in the brain’s white matter. This part of the brain acts as a route for communication between the different regions of it!
What Can You Do?
While these studies have found correlations between oral and brain health, they haven’t proved that one causes the other. Still, many researchers believe there is some kind of connection! Since there is always the possibility that an unhealthy mouth can affect the brain, it’s best to practice good oral hygiene just to be safe.
Some simple steps you can take to do that are:
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily
- Keep up with dental checkups and cleanings at least twice a year
- Treat cavities and gum disease early before they become more serious issues
Your oral health plays a crucial role in your overall wellness! Take good care of it so you can protect not only your teeth and gums but also your entire body!
About the Practice
Dr. Brett Noorda earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the Oregon Health Sciences University School of Dentistry. With nearly 25 years of experience, he ensures that all his patients receive high-quality care. If you’re looking to maintain your smile and gums or improve your oral health, we are here for you! To learn more about proper dental hygiene, schedule an appointment or call us at (702) 456-7403.