Introduction:
A person's oral health may be a reliable indicator of their general health. Oral problems not only diminish a person's quality of life but also raise their likelihood of developing other major health issues. A wide range of ailments, including cancer, diabetes (high blood sugar), cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease that affects bone and joint health), and premature mortality, are linked to poor dental hygiene. Recent research indicates that oral health may have an impact on the brain's health and may even influence the likelihood of developing dementia.
How Is the Oral Cavity Connected to the Brain?
The oral cavity is connected to the brain through several nerves. One of the cranial nerves that links the teeth, gums, jaw, and other areas is the trigeminal nerve. Therefore, if left untreated, an infection in the tooth can swiftly spread to the brain. This occurs when the bloodstream becomes infected with germs and transfers the illness directly to the brain. Because of the bacteria's effects on brain tissue, memory loss, and other issues are more likely to occur.
What Evidence Supports the Link Between Poor Oral Health and Brain Function?
According to studies, the risk of stroke is increased by gum disease, tooth loss, and other indicators of bad oral hygiene, in addition to improper brushing techniques and a failure to remove plaque. The American Stroke Association reports that stroke ranks as the fifth most common cause of mortality and a major contributor to impairment in the country. Additionally, earlier research has connected heart disease risk factors and other illnesses, including high blood pressure, to gum disease and additional problems with oral health.
Uncertainty surrounds the link between inadequate oral health and the condition of the brain, or more specifically, the functionality of an individual's brain, that scientists can now better understand utilizing neural imaging methods like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Experts discovered the link between poor oral health and impaired brain function in a study.
The MRI images of the brains of the individuals were used to screen for two indicators of poor brain health:
-
White matter hyperintensities, which is the damage to the white matter of the brain. It affects the person’s memory, balance, and movement.
-
Microstructural damage is the extent to which intricate structures of the brain have been modified when compared to imaging results of a healthy individual.
The research discovered the following,
-
MRI images showed a 24 percentage of rise in white matter hyperintensities in those who had a genetic predisposition to cavities, tooth loss, or the need for dentures, indicating a greater incidence of silent brain disease.
-
MRI scans revealed a 43 percentage of shift in microstructural damage ratings, which indicates that individuals with genetically compromised dental health experienced more damage to the brain's fine structure.
How Do Periodontal Diseases Affect the Integrity of the Brain?
Dental issues are not typically associated with neurological diseases, even though the gums are physically close to the brain. But, in a recent study researchers have concluded a link between periodontal disease, tooth loss, and cognitive function. Studies have additionally linked periodontal disease to elevated levels of beta-amyloid accumulation in the brain, which is a neurodegenerative marker associated with Alzheimer's disease. Further research conducted by experts revealed the presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease sufferers. Porphyromonas gingivalis is a type of bacterium frequently detected in cases of periodontitis. Infection with this bacterium increases the production of beta-amyloid in the brain. P. gingivalis generates a protein called gingipain which acts against another protein named tau, a protein involved in Alzheimer’s disease.
What Symptoms Occur When the Brain Is Impacted by a Dental Infection?
Some of the symptoms are as follows:
-
High temperature.
-
Sluggishness.
-
Headache.
-
Vomiting and nausea.
-
Having trouble recalling.
-
A rise in misunderstanding.
-
Decreased mobility.
-
Vision shifts.
How Does Dementia Arise From Poor Dental Health?
Dementia is the most frequent brain disorder resulting from inadequate oral hygiene. Dementia can cause severe memory loss that interferes with day-to-day activities. Even though dementia typically develops in old age, problems with oral health can cause dementia to manifest much earlier. Infection of the tooth can result in loss of memory if it reaches the brain. Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist at a regular interval may prevent such complications. Several studies have demonstrated the link between memory loss and loss of teeth. Individuals maybe at higher risk of developing brain illnesses if they have lost more teeth.
What Other Effects Does Poor Dental Health Have?
It has a significant impact. Not limited to mental processes. Poor dental health greatly impacts the cardiac system negatively. Cardiovascular disease may result from it, particularly in men. Naturally, gum disease-related bacteria are ingested and end up in the cardiac system. Blood may thicken as a result of it, increasing the risk of a blockage that results in a heart attack or stroke. Individuals who breathe in air tainted by oral bacteria run the risk of developing lung infections.
How Can Oral Health Be Preserved?
Keep the mouth healthy by maintaining proper hygiene every day.
-
Brush twice a day.
-
Make use of fluoride toothpaste and a brush with gentle bristles.
-
Use floss every day.
-
Following flossing and brushing, use mouthwash to get rid of any remaining food particles.
-
Avoid sugary foods and beverages.
-
If the bristles are worn out or spread, change the toothbrush at intervals of three to four months.
-
Make time for routine dental cleanings and examinations.
-
Refrain from using tobacco.
If any dental issues arise, consult a dentist immediately. Maintaining good oral hygiene is a commitment to the general well-being.
Conclusion:
To conclude, individuals should practice excellent oral hygiene since it has effects that extend further than the mouth, as bad oral hygiene may contribute to a decrease in brain health. However, additional evidence is needed to prove enhancing oral health will result in benefits in brain health. Additionally, further studies are needed to determine the association because individuals with poor brain function may have difficulty practicing good oral hygiene. Chronic conditions like diabetes may also increase the likelihood of poor oral health. Consult the dentist for advice on how to begin practicing more accurate dental hygiene daily if unsure of where to begin.
