{"id":510,"date":"2026-06-26T02:56:49","date_gmt":"2026-06-26T02:56:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lakewoodcompletedentistry.com\/blog\/2026\/06\/26\/gum-disease-and-how-it-leads-to-alzheimers\/"},"modified":"2026-06-26T02:56:49","modified_gmt":"2026-06-26T02:56:49","slug":"gum-disease-and-how-it-leads-to-alzheimers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lakewoodcompletedentistry.com\/blog\/2026\/06\/26\/gum-disease-and-how-it-leads-to-alzheimers\/","title":{"rendered":"The Link Between Alzheimer\u2019s & Gum Disease: What Should You Do?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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It is believed that Alzheimer\u2019s affects more than 6.5 million Americans, and gum disease<\/a> afflicts about 47% of adults in the U.S. who are over the age of 30. For these two statistics to be mentioned together, dentists and researchers are studying how they are connected and what patients can do to prevent declines in oral and physical health. Since June is Brain Health and Alzheimer\u2019s Awareness Month, read on to learn more about the link and what you can do to ensure a healthier smile and sharper mind.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Concerning Factor That Links Gum Disease & Alzheimer\u2019s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Inflammation is the culprit researchers have identified as linking these two diseases. When bacteria, specifically Fuscobacterium nucleatum, attack the gums and underlying jawbone, inflammation can occur and spread throughout the mouth. As the infection worsens, it can enter the bloodstream and travel to various parts of the body, including the brain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At Tufts University, researchers discovered that the bacterium F. nucleatum not only induces inflammation but also exacerbates the signs associated with Alzheimer\u2019s disease. Although it has only been tested in mice, the results reveal a decline in their memory and cognitive abilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ways to Maintain Your Oral Health & Brain Function<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

More research is required before an official cause-and-effect can be determined, but dentists and researchers agree that staying on top of your oral hygiene and health is essential. Adopting smile-friendly habits can improve your overall well-being, making it a win-win.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n