{"id":122,"date":"2024-11-13T16:30:59","date_gmt":"2024-11-13T16:30:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sehnertprecisiondentistry.com\/blog\/?p=122"},"modified":"2024-12-18T16:33:11","modified_gmt":"2024-12-18T16:33:11","slug":"link-between-dental-and-brain-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sehnertprecisiondentistry.com\/blog\/2024\/11\/13\/link-between-dental-and-brain-health\/","title":{"rendered":"Protect Your Mouth, Protect Your Mind: The Link Between Dental and Brain Health"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Emerging research highlights a fascinating yet concerning connection between oral health and brain health. A recent study from the American Academy of Neurology reveals that gum disease and tooth loss may negatively impact brain function, particularly by shrinking the hippocampus, which is a critical area for memory and learning. This shrinkage is linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer\u2019s disease. Read on to learn how you can protect both your dental and brain health.   <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Prevalence of Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease<\/a>, also known as periodontal disease, is a leading contributor to poor oral health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at least 50% of adults over 30 suffer from some form of gum disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gingivitis is the earliest stage, and it\u2019s characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Fortunately, it can be reversed with professional treatment and improved oral hygiene. However, if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe infection that damages the gums, bone, and connective tissues, often resulting in tooth loss. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Connection Between Gum Disease and Brain Health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The link between gum disease and brain health lies in inflammation and its effect on the hippocampus. A study found that even mild gum disease can cause a 3-4 millimeter reduction in hippocampal volume, while severe cases result in a 5-6 millimeter decrease. When gum disease is paired with tooth loss, the rate of brain shrinkage accelerates, effectively aging the brain by an additional 1.3 years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But the risks don\u2019t stop there. Gum disease has also been associated with serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm delivery and low birth weight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Support Gum and Brain Health <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Fortunately, gum disease is largely preventable with consistent care. Protect your gums and brain health with these tips: <\/p>\n\n\n\n