There May Be a Link Between Gum Disease and Alzheimer's

A study recently published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease suggests that a bacteria known as Porphyromonas gingivalis was found in 4 out of 10 samples of brain tissue from Alzheimer's patients. The study also found that no signs of the bacteria were found in the brain tissue of 10 people of similar ages who never developed dementia.

The study researchers are clear to point out that there is an association of the bacteria with Alzheimer's, but that it has not been as of yet proven that they cause the disease.

The bacteria enter the blood stream and travel to the brain, and the theory is that the chemicals they produce build up in the brain, and could contribute to Alzheimer's.

So the key is to keep the teeth free of bacteria in great numbers by brushing and flossing according to StJohn Crean, the lead researcher in the study. He said in an interview that "the issue is to reduce the bacterial load that occupies our gum tissues, to reduce the bacterial assault if and when it happens."

 "Previous studies have shown links between gum disease and other illnesses including heart disease and some forms of cancer."-Kristen Hallam Bloomberg

Here is a link to the article ....http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-07-29/bacteria-in-brains-suggest-alzheimer-s-gum-disease-link.htm...