Studies in the United States and around the world have linked gum disease with the development of Alzheimers disease. The research showed populations over 50 years of age diagnosed with periodontitis (gum disease) were at higher risk of developing Alzheimers disease. When left untreated the percentage of developing the disease increases to 70 percent.
The primary cause is a particular bacteria (spirochetes). Science describes spirochetes as contagious, able to survive inside or outside of the body and sometimes hides in the immune system. The bacterium exists in patients treated for gum disease, Alzheimers, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.
It’s critical to treat the condition in the early stages. As an aggressive bacterium, it travels through the bloodstream to reach the brain. Once the bacteria gets into the neurological tissue, our body recognizes spirochetes as an invader, instigating an attack against it. The destruction of the neurological tissues increases the risk of dementia, memory loss and the ability to respond or carry on a conversation.
Periodontitis Triggers
Periodontal disease develops when the bone under the gums becomes infected. As the condition progresses the bone recedes from the gums forming deep pockets. Ultimately, the teeth fall out due to severe bone loss.
Gum disease starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums around the teeth due to plaque and tarter. It occurs from not brushing or flossing. If you fail to remove the plaque, it turns into tarter. Since both contain harmful bacteria, the risk of gum disease rises. You can prevent the buildup with regular visits to the periodontist or dentist.
Dental Health Guides
Periodontal disease is preventable with good oral hygiene habits. Most of us should visit the dentist twice a year. If you have gum disease, you should visit the periodontist more often.
Dentists treat the condition with antibiotics, and antimicrobial irrigation of the gum pockets. Home care therapies include bactericidal agents to cleanse and irrigate the gum pockets. There are holistic remedies to reinforce periodontitis treatments. Talk with your dentist to find the one that works best for you.
Lifestyle Risks
Although bacteria is the main cause of periodontal disease, lifestyle choices contribute to a higher risk of gum disease. Many of these choices are manageable by learning more about your own dental health.
- In some cases, smoking and tobacco cause resistance to treatment.
- Overcrowded or crooked teeth can make it difficult to remove the plaque and tarter by brushing or flossing.
- Diets high in sugar and carbohydrates lead can lead to teeth and gum problems.
- Prescription medications or over-the-counter remedies interfere with the saliva production allowing bacteria to grow in your mouth.
Conclusion
Professional cleanings and regular visits with the dental hygienist or periodontist will help to remove the plaque from the hard to reach spots. Promoting good oral habits leads to healthy gums and teeth. If you need to make an appointment, call our office at 954-476-0770 or send an email reply.
