Yes. Flossing alone is not a cure; this disrupts the bacterial colonies that cause gum disease. By reducing the amount of inflammation and bleeding in the gums, you reduce the entry points of bacteria to travel to the brain.
Modern scientific research confirms a link between Alzheimer’s and gum disease. The findings specifically identify Porphyromonas gingivalis as a bacterium that causes periodontitis and migrates from the mouth to the brain. Once in the brain, it releases toxins called gingipains that destroy neurons and increase beta-amyloid production. This makes early periodontal treatment a critical factor in dementia prevention. Recent studies support that mice that were infected with Porphyromonas gingivalis showed various neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease [1] (Ryder, 2020). Chronic inflammation of the mouth can trigger systemic inflammation, which can accelerate cognitive decline. Routine periodontal therapy can significantly lower the bacterial load that is linked to Alzheimer’s. Here at Enamel Dentistry, The Domain, we work with you to help manage your oral health effectively, lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s.
When gum disease is present, gum tissue can become inflamed and ulcerated. Recent studies support that there is a moderate link between oral bacteria and Alzheimer’s disease, while the association was shown to be strong when oral bacteria were detectable in the brain [2] (Liu et al., 2023). Further studies have shown that Porphyromonas gingivalis utilizes the oral health biome to enter the bloodstream. Once in the blood, the bacteria can travel to the brain or travel directly along the nerve pathways. Specifically, bacteria can directly harness the trigeminal nerve that connects your jaw to the brainstem.
Once these bacteria travel to the brain, they can release toxic enzymes called gingipains. Researchers found that these toxins physically damage the neurons in the brain. In response, the brain tries to protect itself by producing a sticky protein called beta-amyloid. When this protein accumulates in the brain, plaques form, resulting in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Counterintuitively, the plaque that destroys memory may in fact act as a defense mechanism against bacteria in the mouth.
Neurological damage accumulates over a long period of time. Research has shown that the seeding of these bacteria in the brain often starts 10 to 20 years before the first symptoms of dementia. Treating gum disease in your 40s and 50s can act as a preventive shield. By eliminating the infection early, you can stop the steady stream of bacteria flowing to your brain. This can effectively lower the risk curve for neurological disease in your future.
The table below compares the risk and prevention of periodontal disease:
Feature | Healthy gums | Periodontal therapy | Ignoring the issue |
Primary goal | Prevention | Infection removal | None |
Pain level | None | Low | High |
Systemic inflammation Minimal | Minimal | Lower high inflammation | Maximize inflammation |
Alzheimer’s disease | Low | Reduces risk | Increased |
Cost | Covered by insurance | High | High |
Medical literature supports that periodontitis and dementia are linked, and that periodontitis is a risk factor for dementia in adults [3] (Chen et al., 2023). Treating gum disease typically stops the infection at its source. Deep cleanings that utilize scaling, root planing, and laser therapy can remove the embedded bacterial colonies underneath the gum line. By healing the gum tissue, our periodontal team is able to restore the barrier that prevents bacteria and cytokines from migrating to the brain. This can be a proactive step you can take to preserve your cognitive longevity.
In fact, our dental clinic offers convenient lunchtime appointments near Whole Foods with validated parking to make prioritizing gum health simple.
Inflammatory cytokines produced in diseased gum tissue can enter the bloodstream, cross the blood–brain barrier, and contribute to neuroinflammatory changes within the brain. For patients in The Domain dealing with chronic gum bleeding, your body is constantly generating an immune response. These inflammatory cytokines travel through your blood and weaken the blood-brain barrier. Over time, the inflammation can stress the brain’s immune system, causing it to negatively impact healthy brain cells.
Yes. Flossing alone is not a cure; this disrupts the bacterial colonies that cause gum disease. By reducing the amount of inflammation and bleeding in the gums, you reduce the entry points of bacteria to travel to the brain.
Early stages of gum disease can be reversed, specifically gingivitis. Periodontitis cannot be cured in the traditional sense, but gum disease can be managed. With proper treatment, we can stop the active infection and prevent further damage.
Yes. If you have a genetic predisposition to dementia, your oral health becomes even more important. We may recommend more frequent cleanings to keep the bacterial load in the mouth as low as possible.
Dr. Ravin Chodavadia, DDS, provides comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry at Enamel Dentistry in Austin, TX. He brings extensive experience in Invisalign, implant care, and cosmetic treatments. Known for his light-hearted, positive energy, he is committed to delivering thoughtful, evidence-based care that keeps patients comfortable and confident at every step.
[1] Ryder M. I. (2020). Porphyromonas gingivalis and Alzheimer’s disease: Recent findings and potential therapies. Journal of periodontology, 91 Suppl 1(Suppl 1), S45–S49. https://doi.org/10.1002/JPER.20-0104
[2] Liu, S., Dashper, S. G., & Zhao, R. (2023). Association Between Oral Bacteria and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Alzheimer’s disease: JAD, 91(1), 129–150. https://doi.org/10.3233/JAD-220627
[3] Chen, H. L., Wu, D. R., Chen, J. J., Lin, W. S., Chen, I. C., Liu, J. F., Lien, S., & Lin, C. H. (2023). Association between periodontitis treatment and dementia in Taiwanese adults. BMC oral health, 23(1), 969. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-023-03551-5
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