A Chinese Study Reveals the Impact of Gum Diseases on Cognitive Functions and Increased Alzheimer’s Risks
A recent study conducted in China has shown that gum diseases can directly affect cognitive functions and increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The study, published in the “Journal of Periodontology,” found that individuals suffering from gum diseases, particularly moderate to severe cases, experienced changes in the neural connections within the brain.
The research team from Anhui Medical University explained that the bacteria responsible for gum diseases might travel to brain tissues, triggering immune responses that contribute to the deterioration of cognitive functions.
The researchers compared MRI scans of the brains of 51 adults with normal cognitive functions, including 11 individuals suffering from gum diseases. The results showed a clear link between gum health and brain health.
The researchers pointed out that this discovery suggests gum diseases could be among the risk factors associated with brain damage and cognitive decline.
They also emphasized that treating these diseases might help reduce the chances of developing Alzheimer’s, highlighting the importance of oral health care not only for maintaining dental health but also for preventing potential impacts on the nervous system.