An extensive new study highlights the connection between bad oral hygiene and cognitive decline in the brain.

A healthy mouth may contribute to a healthy mind as well. There is a correlation between gum disease and missing teeth in patients that show signs of Dementia. The study by a team from the University of Eastern Finland showcases the connection between patients not diagnosed with Dementia at the start of the study and their likelihood of developing Dementia based on their oral health.

Over time, our brain function can decline by as much as 23%, and 21% more people can stand a chance of developing Dementia later in life.

Our brain function is directly linked to nutrition and the health of our body. Food full of nutrients, like green leafy vegetables, fatty fish, berries, and walnuts, assists them in functioning at optimum levels.

Bad oral hygiene is often linked to a bad diet. Eating food high in trans fats, processed meats, and carbohydrates like bread and pastries impacts the body’s natural functions. An acid buildup occurs to break down fatty foods when we eat food that does not agree with our digestive systems. The added acid in our systems can cause tooth decay.

If you suffer from acid reflux or indigestion, consider your diet. It is worth it to consult a dietitian to help you with a detox. When you flush your system of toxins, you can push the reset button on your gut health. Then, changing up your diet to include more fresh vegetables and less processed food can naturally improve the symptoms and cause of acid reflux.

When extra bacteria or fatty deposits enter our bloodstream, the body is put under pressure to fight them off. The added pressure increases inflammation, and the body and heart have to work harder to normalize the PH balance of the blood and dispel the added fat and bacteria.

People with bad oral hygiene, bad breath, and even gum disease showed elevated levels of oral bacteria. The bacteria lands up in the bloodstream, and of course, that blood filters through our brain. We need to eliminate harmful bacteria and prevent them from entering the bloodstream. You can achieve that with regular brushing, flossing, and dentist visits. Your dentist or oral hygienist can be the early detection specialist you need to highlight your need for early intervention.

The knock-on effect on your body is immediate when you keep your mouth healthy. You benefit when you take care to remove and flush toxins from any plaque buildup and remove the harmful bacteria from your mouth, heart, blood, and brain.

If you find that you have loose teeth or are missing some teeth, it is even more important to visit your dentist for a check-up. Bacteria can get into these cavities and can cause detrimental declines in your cognitive function as you age.

As your dental health professionals, your well-being is important to us. We are here to assist in your oral health. Feel free to reach out and call the office should you have any concerns or questions about dementia and oral hygiene at 561-482-7008, or reach out to us through our contact page.

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