New research focused on Alzheimer’s disease is providing extra motivation to keep our mouths healthy.
An estimated 44 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers have discovered that the bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis that causes gum disease (gingivitis) can move from the mouth into the brain. Porphyromonas gingivalis produces a protein that destroys nerve cells which leads to memory loss which eventually leads to dementia or Alzheimers.
The good news is, with minimal effort we can keep our mouths free of the bacteria that cause gingivitis. If we have already developed gingivitis, we need to take extra care to return our mouth to a healthy state. Below are several tips that will help you prevent and reverse early stages of gingivitis.
Tips to Prevent Gingivitis
- Brush twice a day
- Use an electric toothbrush to optimize cleaning power
- Floss daily
- Use a natural mouthwash
- Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco
- Limit sugar
- Rinse with saltwater
- Visit your dentist once a year — the cleaning and care you get from your dental hygienist is far superior to what you can do yourself at home. Your hygienist will also let you know the state of your oral health and offer guidance on how to care for your gums and teeth.
Prevention is key
Once you begin to develop Gum disease, you will know. There are several signs and symptoms such as:
- A persistent bad taste and odor in the mouth
- Bright red swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing and flossing
- White spots or plaques on the gums
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Loose teeth or loss of teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together
- A change in the way your dentures fit
Gum disease is reversible, especially during the early stages. However, once it has progressed into the bones, irreversible changes start to take place. Therefore, it is essential to take steps to prevent and reverse gingivitis in the earlier stages.
If you would like to learn more, Westbrook House Dental Surgery is a private practice in the heart of Newbury with a focus on highly skilled, high-tech dental care.
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