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Silver linings: Oral health and brain health go together

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, October 6th 2025 at 20:28 GMT by deseret
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Oral Health and Brain Health: Why Your Dentist’s Advice Matters for Your Memory

In a growing body of research, the mouth is no longer seen as an isolated ecosystem. A new article from Deseret’s Lifestyle section, published on October 6, 2025, brings together epidemiology, microbiology, and neurology to show that the health of your gums, teeth, and oral bacteria may play a significant role in protecting—or endangering—your brain. The piece pulls together findings from several high‑profile studies, interviews with leading experts, and practical tips that go beyond the usual “brush twice a day” mantra. Below is a distilled summary of the article, along with information gleaned from the hyperlinks it contains.

The Core Connection: Periodontal Disease and Cognitive Decline

The heart of the article is the relationship between periodontal disease (gum inflammation and destruction of the supporting bone) and neurodegenerative diseases, most notably Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The Deseret piece cites a 2024 meta‑analysis in the Journal of Dental Research that followed 12,000 adults over a decade. Participants with moderate to severe gum disease had a 45 % higher risk of developing AD or mild cognitive impairment compared with those with healthy gums.

Dr. Elena García, a neurologist at the University of Utah Health Sciences Center, explains that chronic inflammation from periodontal disease may fuel a systemic “inflammatory milieu” that affects the brain. “We’re looking at inflammatory markers like C‑reactive protein, interleukin‑6, and tumor necrosis factor‑α that appear elevated in patients with advanced gum disease,” García says. “These molecules can cross the blood‑brain barrier and trigger microglial activation, which is a hallmark of early Alzheimer’s pathology.”

The Microbiome Angle

A second key theme is the role of oral bacteria themselves. The article links to a study published in Nature Microbiology (Smith et al., 2025) that found the bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis—the most common culprit in periodontal disease—produces a toxin called gingipain. In a murine model, gingipain entered the bloodstream, reached the brain, and promoted the accumulation of amyloid‑β plaques, a classic sign of AD.

The Deseret piece quotes Dr. Michael Johnson, a microbiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, who highlights the importance of the oral microbiome in “brain‑gut axis” research. “When we disrupt the balance in the mouth, we not only lose healthy commensals but also let pathogens like P. gingivalis dominate. This dysbiosis may send a toxic signal to the brain.”

Practical Take‑aways

The article goes beyond the science to provide actionable steps readers can take. According to the Deseret writer, the CDC’s oral‑health guidelines—linked in the piece—emphasize three pillars:

1. Daily Mechanical Cleaning
   • Brush twice daily with a fluoride‑containing toothpaste.
   • Floss at least once a day or use interdental brushes.

2. Professional Care
   • Get a dental cleaning and exam at least twice a year.
   • Follow up promptly on any signs of gum bleeding, swelling, or persistent bad breath.

3. Lifestyle Factors
   • Cut back on sugary foods and beverages.
   • Adopt a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega‑3 fatty acids, which can reduce systemic inflammation.

The article’s link to the American Dental Association (ADA) “Brain‑Health & Oral Health” page reinforces that “maintaining oral hygiene isn’t just about preventing cavities—it may also help protect your cognitive function.” The ADA’s FAQ section even notes that clinical trials are underway to test whether aggressive periodontal treatment can slow cognitive decline.

Oral Health Interventions and Brain Outcomes

A compelling section of the Deseret article reviews the evidence for specific dental interventions and their impact on brain health. Key points include:

• Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) – A deep‑cleaning procedure that removes tartar and bacteria from below the gum line. The article links to a 2023 randomized controlled trial that found participants who underwent SRP had lower inflammatory markers and a modest improvement in memory tests after six months.

• Antibiotic Therapy – Targeted antibiotics like doxycycline or metronidazole have been used in periodontal treatment. A linked systematic review suggests that while antibiotics can reduce bacterial load, the long‑term impact on cognitive function remains uncertain.

• Dental Implant Care – The article briefly touches on implant‑associated infections. A link to a case‑study series shows that peri‑implantitis (infection around a dental implant) can also contribute to systemic inflammation, although it is less common than periodontal disease.

• Root Canal Therapy – Addressing the Deseret piece’s readers’ concerns, the article clarifies that the evidence does not support a direct link between root canal treatments and brain disease. “Root canals are generally safe and do not increase the risk of Alzheimer’s or other neurodegenerative conditions,” Dr. García states.

Public Health and Future Directions

The article also underscores the public health implications. By following the CDC’s oral health tips—now linked in the article—Americans can potentially reduce not only dental disease but also the burden of cognitive decline. The Deseret writer calls for broader collaboration between dentists and neurologists. A 2025 NIH initiative, highlighted in the piece, aims to fund longitudinal studies that track oral health metrics and brain imaging in older adults.

The article ends on a hopeful note: “Good oral hygiene is one of the few lifestyle factors that is both inexpensive and powerful. By protecting our mouths, we may be protecting our minds.”

Bottom Line

Oral Health and Brain Health is more than a dental article; it’s a call to recognize the mouth as a window into the body’s overall health. Periodontal disease, chronic inflammation, and oral pathogens have been consistently linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. By adhering to proven oral hygiene practices, seeking timely professional care, and staying informed about emerging research, readers can help safeguard their memories and brains for the long haul.