Alzheimer’s Disease Related to Poor Dental Care

Posted on

Oct 27, 2015

share-this
Share This
Alzheimers Disease Related to Poor Dental Care

What if anything, does the health of teeth have to do with memory and the quality of overall health? The number of real teeth in the mouth directly correlates with the possibility of being diagnosed with Alzheimers disease.

A study of residents of Leisure World in Southern California indicates a significant correlation between poor dental care and the diagnosis of Alzheimers disease.1 Findings from the study indicate that significant tooth loss meaning, loss of 50% or more of teeth between the ages of 35 and 50, failure to brush teeth daily and missing semi and annual dental appointments result in a greater risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimers disease.

Other studies confirm that poor dental care, not brushing teeth daily, results in mental decline. Research confirms the spread of bacteria to the brain likely occurs through the trigeminal nerve which controls our ability to chew.

The ability and frequency of chewing is beneficial to the brain. Research confirms the absence of the activity of chewing, because of missing teeth, results in reduced levels of acetylcholine that supports proper functioning of the brain.2 Acetylcholine levels are lower in persons diagnosed with Alzheimers disease and result in memory loss, inability to learn new tasks and disruptive mood and behaviors.

Good dental care by way of daily teeth brushing, avoiding infections and retaining the ability to chew is an individual choice. While brushing teeth may seem like a hassle, brushing is better than the alternative. Brushing is a small daily preventative effort taking less than a few minutes a day to ensure decreased risk of being diagnosed with Alzheimers disease or another chronic disease. Making the effort to take care of teeth and your memory is an individual choice.

References:

1 Paganini-Hill, A. et al. Dentition, Dental Health Habits, and Dementia: The Leisure World Cohort Study. J Am Geriatr Soc 60:1556-1563, 2012.

2 Okamoto, N. et al. Relationship of Tooth Loss to Mind Memory Impairment and Cognitive Impairment: Findings from the Fujiwara-Kyo Study. Behavioral and Brain Functions 2010: 6:77.

Editors Note: This article was submitted by Pamela D. Wilson, CSA, MS, BS/BA, CG, owner of The Care Navigator. Pamela may be reached at 303-205-7877 or by email at pamela@thecarenavigator.com

Other Articles You May Like

Getting Dental Implants in Colorado Springs

Did you know that having a missing tooth can cause issues for you when eating and lead to other dental issues if you dont take care as soon as possible? No matter how you lost teeth, Dr. Guerra wants to help find the best possible solution for you so that you can smile with confidence. If youve lost teeth because of decay, or an injury then you might want to consider dental implants. Learn more about why patients are getting dental implants in Colorado Springs.What are Dental Implants?Implants are joined to your jawbone unlike dentures and dental bridges and what makes them even better is that they resemble your natural teeth so people wont notice as much. During the tooth replacements, an imitation root gets placed into the missing tooth socket. Over time the area around the root will heal and then a nonpermanent prosthetic tooth will get placed above the imitation root that was put in previously. Once the implant merges with the bone and the area is completely healed then a long-term replacement tooth is placed above the implant.Advantages of Dental Implants:If youre looking for a comfortable method to improve the appearance of your teeth, then dental implants are the way to go. You wont have any issues with speaking or eating and they are just about as strong as your natural teeth so, unlike dental bridges, nothing will happen to your other teeth so you can continue practicing good oral hygiene.Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?If you have lost teeth, then youre most likely considered a candidate for dental implants, however, there are some things that need to be taken into consideration first. When you come in for an appointment to see Dr. Guerra, he will examine your jawbone to see how strong it is. In addition to a strong jawbone, you should also be in good health and have a healthy mouth so no issues occur during or after the procedure. He will also determine if this is the best solution but if not then there are other options such as dental bridges and in some cases dentures. Regardless of the method, Dr. Guerra will take a look at your teeth, and based on the examination, he will work with you to find the best possible solution for you.You can find more info about dental implants here, but if you have any further questions or concerns about the procedure and what it entails then dont hesitate to give your local Colorado Springs dental office a call (719.888.3959). We are here to help you with any and all of your dental care needs!

Natural Teeth Whitening: Expert Tips for Whiter Teeth

Brighten Your Smile Naturally: Expert Tips from Guerra Dental for Natural Teeth WhiteningA dazzling white smile can boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. While there are various teeth whitening options available, you might want a natural one to achieve a brighter smile. Here are some expert tips on how to naturally whiten your teeth. These methods are safe, effective, and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine. Lets dive into the world of natural teeth whitening!Brush with Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide: Baking soda has mild abrasive properties that can help remove surface stains from your teeth. Combine a small amount of baking soda with hydrogen peroxide to create a paste. Gently brush your teeth with this mixture for a couple of minutes, then rinse thoroughly. However, its essential to use this method sparingly to avoid damaging your tooth enamel.Oil Pulling for a Brighter Smile: Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that can help improve oral health and naturally whitened teeth. Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil or sesame oil in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it reaches all corners of your mouth. Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth with water. Oil pulling can help remove bacteria and plaque that can cause the yellowing of teeth over time.Incorporate Whitening Fruits and Vegetables into Your Diet: Certain fruits and vegetables can naturally whiten your teeth. Strawberries, for example, contain malic acid, which helps remove surface stains. Rub mashed strawberries onto your teeth, leave it on for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, celery, and carrots act as natural stain removers by stimulating saliva production and scrubbing away surface stains.Limit Foods and Beverages That Stain: Prevention is key when it comes to maintaining a white smile. Minimize your consumption of foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries. If you do indulge in these staining substances, make sure to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterward to minimize their effects.Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine is vital for a bright smile. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using whitening toothpaste that contains natural ingredients like baking soda or activated charcoal. Dont forget to floss daily to remove plaque and prevent stains between your teeth.Regular Dental Cleanings: Schedule regular dental cleanings with Guerra Dental to keep your smile looking its best. Professional cleanings help remove stubborn stains and plaque buildup that cannot be eliminated through brushing alone. Our experienced dental team can also provide personalized advice and guidance for natural teeth whitening methods.Achieving a naturally whiter smile is possible with these simple tips from Guerra Dental. Incorporating natural remedies into your oral care routine, along with a healthy diet and regular dental cleanings, can help you achieve and maintain a bright, radiant smile. Remember, everyones teeth are unique, so its essential to consult with our dental professionals for personalized advice and treatment options. Get ready to smile confidently with your naturally whiter teeth!Request an appointment here: https://www.guerradental.com or call Guerra Dental at (719) 888-3959 for an appointment in our Colorado Springs office.

How In-Home Dental Care Works

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for overall health, especially as we age. However, many seniors face challenges in accessing dental care, such as transportation issues or mobility problems. In-home dental care provides a solution by bringing dental professionals and equipment directly to the patient's home. Read on to know how in-home dental care works, the services in-home dental care can provide, and how to prepare for an in-home dental care appointment.The Process of In-Home Dental CareThe process of in-home dental care typically begins with completing an online registration and scheduling an appointment with a dental provider who offers in-home services. During the scheduling process, the provider will ask questions about the patient's dental history and any concerns they may have. This information helps the provider determine the equipment and supplies they will need to bring to the appointment. On the day of the appointment, the dental professional will arrive at the patient's home with all the necessary equipment and supplies. They will set up a portable dental chair, light, and any other instruments needed for the procedures. The dental professional will then perform a routine dental exam, which involves checking the patient's teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, infection, or other dental issues. After the exam, the dental professional will clean the patient's teeth, removing any plaque or tartar buildup. They may also polish the teeth to remove surface stains and improve their appearance. If the patient needs any additional dental procedures, such as a filling or a root canal, the dental professional will perform those as well.Services Offered in In-Home Dental CareDental professionals who offer in-home care are equipped with portable dental chairs, lights, and instruments, which allow them to provide comprehensive dental care in a patient's home. This means that any services typically provided by a dental office, such as cleanings, denture work, fillings, x-rays, crown and bridge work, extractions, root canals, night guards, and any other dental procedures that are deemed clinically necessary. In-home dental care can therefore provide any dental services that are needed by those who cannot make it into a dental office.Preparing for an In-Home Dental Care AppointmentSeniors who are preparing for an in-home dental care appointment can take a few steps to ensure a smooth and successful experience. First, they should make sure their home is prepared for the dental professional's visit. This may involve clearing a space for the dental chair and light and ensuring that there is an electrical outlet nearby for the dental equipment. Seniors should also make sure they are comfortable during the appointment. They may want to wear comfortable clothing that allows the dental professional to access their mouth easily. They should also let the dental professional know if they have any physical limitations or medical conditions that may affect the appointment. Finally, seniors should be prepared to discuss their dental history and any concerns they may have with the dental professional. By providing as much information as possible, seniors can help the dental professional tailor the appointment to their specific needs and address any issues that may be affecting their oral health.  If youre looking for in-home dental care, reach out to the specialists at Enable Dental. We will make certain that you or your elderly loved one has the best oral hygiene care possibleall from the comfort of their own home! Call us for more information or to book an appointment.