Assoc. Dr. Elif Öncü explains in scientific detail how gum health is not limited to the oral cavity but directly affects brain health and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
How Do Gum Bacteria Reach the Brain?
In the chronic inflammation mechanism, especially in gum disease, tissue-destroying bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis begin to multiply in the gums. These bacteria and their toxins reach the brain via the bloodstream, triggering microglial activation and increasing neuroinflammation specific to Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammatory Load and Neuronal Damage
Studies have shown that these bacteria can be detected in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. The toxins of these bacteria can trigger the production of beta-amyloid in the brain, which is a typical symptom of Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, in advanced gum disease, pro-inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6 can rise, accelerating brain aging and increasing neuronal damage.
Gum health is highly protective not only for oral health but also for brain health.