Can Taking Care of Your Teeth Help Protect Your Brain?
Table of Contents
Introduction
Most of us brush and floss to keep our teeth clean and our breath fresh. But here’s something you might not know: your oral health could also play a role in keeping your brain healthy, especially as you get older.
Recent research shows a growing connection between poor dental health and dementia — including Alzheimer’s disease. Let’s take a look at what scientists are discovering and how simple daily habits might make a big difference.
The Surprising Link Between Your Mouth and Your Mind
Doctors have known for a while that problems in the mouth can affect the whole body — like raising the risk of heart disease or diabetes. Now, studies suggest that gum disease and tooth loss may also be linked to memory loss and dementia.
One study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that a certain type of bacteria that causes gum disease — Porphyromonas gingivalis — was found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. The toxins made by this bacteria (called gingipains) may damage brain cells and cause inflammation [1].
Why Inflammation Matters
When you have gum disease, your body responds by creating inflammation — not just in your mouth, but throughout your body. Over time, this kind of chronic inflammation can affect your brain and may play a role in diseases like Alzheimer’s [2].
In fact, a study from South Korea found that people with serious gum disease were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than those with healthier mouths [3]. It’s a strong reminder that taking care of your gums isn’t just about comfort — it could be part of protecting your memory.
What About Tooth Loss?
Losing teeth is often a sign of long-term gum problems or tooth decay — and it turns out, it may also be connected to brain health. A large review of studies found that people with significant tooth loss had a 48% higher risk of developing dementia and a 28% higher risk of memory issues [4].
Why? Well, missing teeth can make it harder to chew healthy foods, which can affect nutrition — and your brain needs good fuel to function. Also, the act of chewing may help keep parts of the brain active. Fewer teeth could mean less stimulation for those areas over time.
Simple Habits Can Make a Big Difference
The good news? You don’t need to do anything complicated to protect your mouth — and possibly your brain. Sticking to a few simple habits every day can go a long way:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to clean between your teeth
- See a dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
- Get help early if your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding
- Eat a balanced, low-sugar diet
Taking care of your mouth is about so much more than a nice smile. It might also help keep your brain sharp as you age — and that’s something to smile about.
Sources
- [1] Dominy, S. S., et al. (2019). Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s disease brains. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.
- [2] Kamer, A. R., et al. (2020). Periodontal disease and Alzheimer’s. Journal of Periodontology.
- [3] Lee, Y., et al. (2020). Gum disease linked to dementia. Scientific Reports.
- [4] Chen, X., et al. (2021). Tooth loss and brain health. BMC Oral Health.