Poor oral health can cause dementia. Seriously?

The link between dental health and dementia is not widely known, but research suggests there is a connection.

Dental plaque can cause inflammation not only in the mouth but also in the brain and can contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. Inflammation around brain cells can cause stronger beta-amyloid sedimentation as a protective response. Researchers are still studying the connection between poor dental hygiene and dementia.

However, as the population ages, the incidence of periodontal disease and Alzheimer's disease are likely to rise. Studies have looked into the connection between dental health and cognitive function and have shown that a good dental health routine can reduce the risk of both conditions. There is strong evidence that people who regularly brush and floss their teeth are less likely to develop dementia than those who do not brush or floss their teeth regularly.