Gum Disease, Systemic links and Dementia/Alzheimer’s

Gum Disease

There are two types of gum disease; they are called gingivitis and periodontitis. These are infections of the mouth caused by bacteria. The mouth contains the highest amount of bacteria in the body; hundreds of different types thrive in its environment. Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the UK.
The bacteria in the mouth travel throughout the body via inhalation, ingestion and circulation causing adverse effects to it.
Signs and Symptoms of gum disease:
Bleeding
Redness
Swelling
Loose teeth
Drifting to a different position
Gum recession
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Foul Taste in mouth
Occasionally Discomfort
Symptomless
Dementia/Alzheimers
Elderly people who do not brush at least once per day were up to 65 per cent more likely to develop dementia than those who brushed twice daily. Gum disease is an indication of exposure to inflammation, which in turn can proceed to harm brain tissue and cause dementia.
For further reading and information:  (Holmes 2013)