Did you know that your oral health is linked to other parts of your body? In fact, the way you take care of your teeth can have a direct impact on your risk for conditions that may seem unrelated. That’s one of the many reasons why it’s so important to brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly.
Gum Disease and Brain Deterioration
A study was conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois in Chicago that found a connection between gum disease and the brain. Groups of wild type mice were studied for 22 weeks. Those that had gum disease also showed deterioration and inflammation in the brain.
Other studies have also shown a connection between the two conditions. People with gum disease for 10 years or more had an increased risk of developing dementia. In some cases, the risk was as much as 70%. The studies included more than 28,000 people. Participants who brushed their teeth regularly had a lowered risk.
Gum disease was also associated with other serious conditions including Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease, and cancers like HPV.
Monitoring Your Oral Hygiene
Keeping your risk as low as possible for gum disease and other conditions is an ongoing process. You must maintain good oral hygiene. That should include more than daily brushing and flossing. A dentist can monitor your mouth and watch for signs of deterioration, damage, and more. Contact Goldstein Dental Group in Novi, Michigan today to schedule an appointment.
