Alzheimer's and Gum Disease

As periodontal specialists, we at the dental office of Dr. Martin Urban recognize how important healthy gums are for the entire body. Recent research has established connections between gum disease and diabetes, cirrhosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Now, evidence is building that gum disease contributes to yet another common disease with life-threatening implications. We want our patients to know that good dental health could protect them from Alzheimer’s.

One of the species of oral bacteria that causes gum recession is Porphyromonas gingivalis. These bacteria protect themselves from white blood cells by producing toxic enzymes called gingipains. In one recent study, scientists found that people who displayed symptoms of Alzheimer’s had elevated levels of gingipains in their brains and neural fluid, with higher levels being found among people with worse symptoms. Gingipains are known from animal testing to be able to trigger the formation of neural plaque.

Another recent study found direct evidence of P. gingivalis moving from the gums to the brain in people who were still alive. Although doctors caution that this does not mean gum disease is the only contributor to Alzheimer’s, it does now appear to be a significant one. Previously, scientists had believed that Alzheimer’s was causing people to have bad oral hygiene, but the two now appear to function as a vicious circle. People who take good care of their teeth and gums may be able to avoid the cycle.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Gum Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis

It seems that every day we learn something new about the importance of gum health. As a dentist with special training in periodontics, Dr. Martin Urban is an expert in repairing and preventing gum damage. Recently, scientists found new evidence of a connection between gum disease and a certain kind of arthritis, so we wanted to make sure our patients understand why they should prioritize their gums.

Although Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is characterized by swollen joints, it is an autoimmune disorder. It occurs when the immune system attacks synovium, a joint lining tissue that shares a molecular similarity with gum tissue. Scientists have long known that people with RA are at particular risk for periodontitis and that this is not entirely due to their difficulty brushing and flossing, since gum disease symptoms tend to appear before their fingers swell up. New research has focused on how else the bacteria that cause gum disease affect the body.

Researchers found that the acid produced by some oral bacteria causes hypercitrullination, the excessive break-down of proteins. The body produces a large number of antibodies to destroy the deformed proteins, and the antibodies harm gum tissues as well as synovium. Currently, scientists are investigating whether treating gum disease can cause reduction in joint swelling. But regardless, it seems clear that it is good for patients’ joints to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place. If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.

 

Gum Disease and Cirrhosis

As specialists in implants, we at the dental office of Dr. Marin Urban are particularly concerned about anything that could exacerbate gum disease. When gingivitis turns into periodontal disease, the integrity of the tooth roots or implant posts can be imperiled. But we also know that oral health is closely tied to overall wellness, and we wanted to share an exciting new study that found treating gum disease can also reduce the harmful effects of liver inflammation.

Cirrhosis is the term doctors use to describe the development of scar tissue on the liver. When the liver has been inflamed long enough to develop scar tissue, it is no longer an effective filter for toxins from the bloodstream. As a result, the patient’s immune system triggers the inflammation response elsewhere in the body, including the brain. Cognitive fog and mood swings are common results. Gum disease exists at particularly high rates in people with cirrhosis. This is partly explained by both resulting from smoking and alcohol, but it was less clear why gum disease would be disproportionately common in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Bacteria that cause gum disease have been found in the livers of cirrhosis patients. Recently, researchers conducted an experiment in which patients with both diseases were given gum cleanings at different times. The results were that cirrhosis symptoms such as cognitive fog and suppressed anti-inflammatory bacteria count improved following dental treatment. While we’re still learning more about the effect of oral bacteria on the rest of the body, we hope our patients will understand why dentistry is so important.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Martin Urban, call 508-425-9640 or visit us at Martin Urban DDS.