Alzheimer's and Gum Disease

A healthy smile is essential to health overall. We’ve learned a lot in recent years about the connection between gum disease and other health problems, including diabetes, cirrhosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. We hope that every patient at Dr. Suzanne Haeri’s South Carthay dental office is taking care of their oral hygiene. New research indicates that if they are, they may also be protecting themselves from Alzheimer’s disease.

The bacteria that cause gum disease have natural defenses. One species, Porphyromonas gingivalis, produces toxic enzymes called gingipains to fight off white blood cells. Gingipains can also trigger the formation of plaque that kills neurons, and in a recent study, scientists found them at elevated levels in the brains and spinal fluid of people with Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. The worse the symptoms were, the more gingipains were found.

Another recent study found that P. gingivalis can move from the mouth to the brain in living people. It’s long been known that people with Alzheimer’s disease have difficulty maintaining their oral hygiene, but it increasingly seems that the relationship between the diseases goes both ways. Scientists do not believe that gum disease is the only contributing factor to Alzheimer’s, but it’s become increasingly clear that deep cleanings and regular oral hygiene are a crucial defense.

Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90035. To set up an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit Suzanne Haeri DDS and fill out a request.