Researchers from the University of Central Lancashire discovered this link between the two diseases by studying 10 dementia brain tissue samples and 10 non-dementia brain tissue samples. The results of the study indeed confirmed the presence of porphyromonas gingivalis in the dementia brain tissue samples.
Often times, it is difficult to conceptualize the relationship between oral health and systemic health. As the bacteria found in the oral cavity enters the blood stream, it can easily travel to the brain. When the porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria reach the brain, the brain responds to the foreign body by releasing chemicals that could potentially destroy neurons. The researchers hypothesize that this immune response may ultimately manifest in symptoms of confusion and loss of memory characteristic of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
If you have any more questions, feel free to contact Drs. Ali & Ali and the caring team at Wellesley Dental Group if you have any thoughts or concerns; they will be happy to answer your questions! Contact us today at 781-237-9071 or smile@wellesleydentalgroup.com to set up an appointment and consultation.
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References:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/264164.php
http://www.perio.org/newsroom/periodontal-disease-fact-sheet
http://www.computationalbioenergy.org/QSpec/MetaRef%20clade%20%20flavescens_files/relatedimg/Porphyromonas%20gingivalis%20W83%20%20%20(100mW%20500mW)/introduction.jpg
