Numerous research studies point to a link between gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, and the development of dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease. And as in the case of other pathologies, good oral health is confirmed as an important preventive measure.

Alzheimer’s disease is a pathology that the World Health Organisation (WHO) considers to be the new epidemic of the 21st century: it is estimated that by 2050 the number of people affected by this disease will rise to around 140 million worldwide.

And as we have seen in the case of other pathologies, proper oral health is an important preventive measure to contribute to people’s general health, and in particular to the development of this disease.

Research carried out in recent years suggests that increased levels of antibodies to periodontal bacteria lead to an increase in the presence of inflammatory molecules in other parts of the body, which is related to higher rates of cognitive impairment in cases of Alzheimer’s disease.

One of the papers that initiated this line of research is the study published in Science Advances by a group of Norwegian scientists from the Broegelmanns Research Laboratory of the Department of Clinical Science at the Universitetet i Bergen (UiB).

The authors determined that gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums and is considered to be the initial stage of periodontitis or periodontal disease, may play a decisive role in the development of the disease.

Findings from DNA-based tests indicated that the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis, which causes gingivitis, can pass from the mouth to the brain. This bacterium produces a protein that destroys nerve cells, leading to memory loss and promoting the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

A commonly found bacterium

Porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria are mainly found in cases of gingival and periodontal infections, although they can also be found at low levels in 25% of healthy individuals without oral disease.

The transient bacteraemia it causes can occur during common activities such as brushing, flossing and chewing, as well as during dental procedures.

This results in documented translocation to various tissues, such as the coronary arteries, placenta and liver. Scientific evidence also indicates that 100% of patients with cardiovascular disease had arterial colonisation by Porphyromonas gingivalis.

The importance of prevention

The relevance of the finding is very significant, as it is estimated that 50% of the population is a carrier of this bacteria, and that around 10% will develop a severe form of the disease. There is also evidence that Porphyromonas gingivalis is associated with rheumatoid arthritis, oesophageal cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

While the authors state that the bacteria itself does not cause dementia, its presence does increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and in turn accelerates its development.

The researchers pointed out that this line of research allows for a new approach to Alzheimer‘s treatment, opening the door to the development of drugs that block the harmful enzymes secreted by the bacteria.

Based on these findings, at Lura Care once again we want to remind the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and prevention habits such as regular brushing, flossing and regular rinsing with mouthwash. It is also essential to have regular check-ups with the dentist, especially for those who suffer from gingivitis or who have a history of Alzheimer’s disease in the family.