Despite years of study, scientists still cannot pinpoint the right cause of Alzheimer’s disease. They have also not found a treatment to help people heal from this progressive and irreversible disease.
Alzheimer’s is a disease that touches many people around the world. Though it can affect younger people, it is most common in adults 65 years of age and older. It alters the patient’s memory. Over time, it lowers the patient’s mental skills and ability to do everyday tasks.
Initial symptoms can vary, but the most common is forgetting recent information. Other signs are trouble finding the right words or expressing ideas, repeating questions, taking longer to complete everyday tasks, being disoriented or lost, mood swings, and not recognizing people close to the patient.
The predisposition to develop Alzheimer’s is thought to be a mixture of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Oral hygiene has been studied as one of the latter.
Several studies have linked poor oral health or hygiene as a potential risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. That’s why taking good care of our teeth and gums throughout our lives is important to prevent serious long-term problems. Gum health plays a big role. Gum disease can develop in mouths that have not been properly cleaned. Bacteria left in the mouth can infect surrounding tissues. This is called gingivitis. It occurs when bacteria build up between the teeth and gums, causing swelling and bleeding. If left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis. In bad cases, periodontitis can cause you to lose your teeth.
By following these tips, you can take good care of your oral health:
- Brush your teeth after each meal, and floss daily.
- Every six months, plan a cleaning with your dentist.
- Visit your dentist most often to check the state of your gums.
- Eat a balanced diet; reduce sugar intake.
- Avoid smoking.
See your dentist if you have any of these symptoms is also important. They could be a sign of more serious health problems:
- Your gums are inflamed
- Bleeding while brushing teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Bad taste in your mouth
- Painful or sensitive gums
- Loose or shifting teeth
Keeping good oral health is key to maintaining a good quality of life. It not only prevents dental problems but also contributes to overall well-being.
TSS-MKT-5564-2024-B
