This week is Dementia Action Week, a UK-wide event aimed at inspiring the public to take action to improve the lives of people living with dementia.
It is estimated that 34.5 million people across the UK currently know someone with dementia, and one in three people born in the UK will develop dementia in their lifetime. . But did you know that regular dental checkups can indicate the onset of the disease in some patients?
On the occasion of Dementia Action Week, Dr. Smita Mehra, Chief Dentist at Neemtree Dental Clinic, BDS MFGDPRCS, talks about the relationship between Alzheimer's disease and oral health, and how families can manage their oral health for people suffering from the degenerative disease. Learn how you and your friends can help. :
What is the relationship between oral health and Alzheimer's disease?
“Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative disease that most commonly affects people over the age of 60, and the relationship between Alzheimer's disease and oral health shows the long-term impact of caring for patients' teeth and gums as the disease progresses. is focused on.
“The sooner we diagnose patients, the sooner we can educate them on how to effectively clean and care for their mouths through simple, easy-to-understand instructions that act like muscle memory.”
How can your oral health show signs of Alzheimer's disease?
“An early sign in people with Alzheimer's disease is poor oral care. Usually, but not always, this is an older patient who appears to be neglecting their oral care.
“A large amount of plaque and tartar builds up, leading to cavities and swollen and bleeding gums. These can be visible to us as dentists, or when we touch or blow air into the teeth. This is evident from patients complaining of pain.
“Dry mouth due to ageing and a complex combination of medications can lead to tooth decay and difficulties swallowing and even speaking. With Alzheimer's, the patient's overall symptoms are important. Simply put, these are signs of neglect.
“As dentists, we do not intend to isolate and identify the bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, that are associated with this disease. We will leave that to the scientists.”
What does current research say about this relationship?
“One of the biggest links between periodontal disease and Alzheimer's disease patients is evidence of a particular type of bacteria found in the oral cavity, Porphyromonas gingivalis. Some studies have shown that this particular type of bacteria The bacteria has been shown to be associated with patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
“Purely observational evidence suggests that mercury, a known neurotoxin found in amalgam fillings, may be potentially associated with patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease, as well as MS and chronic fatigue syndrome. There are also some theories.
“Many dental practices in the UK typically do not rely on amalgam fillings and instead use mercury-free alternatives such as ceramic or composite fillings. Additionally, France, Sweden and Norway , some European countries, such as Denmark, have banned or restricted the use of mercury fillings for the past 20 years.
What should people do to protect themselves from the potential health effects of this connection?
“Prevention is key to reducing the likelihood of Porphyromonas gingivalis growth in the oral cavity. You will need to see a dentist and check your hygiene.
“For people with Alzheimer's disease who are in the more advanced stages of the disease, a companion or family member should be present at dental appointments and physical examinations to understand how to maintain oral care at home. In addition to this, you can also tell them about any dental issues or symptoms you may have witnessed the patient suffering from.
“They should also make sure to schedule future regular appointments with the dentist for their patients and ask to receive reminders via email or text message so they don't forget anything.”
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