Bacteria from chronic gum disease has been found in brains suffering from Alzheimer’s. Bad oral hygiene has been a known risk factor for dementia but researchers now suspect that bacteria from gum disease may somehow cross into the brain and cause or worsen Alzheimer’s symptoms.

Alzheimer’s is linked to gum disease – but bad oral health is not the only culprit

For most people, teeth cleaning may just be a normal part of your daily routine. But what if the way you clean your teeth today, might affect your chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease in years to come?

There is an increasing body of evidence to indicate that gum (periodontal) disease could be a plausible risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Some studies even suggest your risk doubles when gum disease persists for ten or more years. Indeed, a US study published in Science Advances details how a type of bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis – or P. gingivalis – which is associated with gum disease, has been found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Tests on mice also showed how the bug spread from their mouth to brain… Continue Reading (3 minute read)