Alzheimer’s News October 2021

Gum disease and dementia risk:
Ignoring your gums might have serious repercussions beyond oral Health:
Extreme gum disease that leads to tooth loss may be associated with mild cognitive impairment and dementia later in life, Reports Neurology Magazine.
Researchers followed more than 8,000 adults, with an average age of 63 and no dementia, for about 20 years. At the beginning of the study, participants underwent a periodontal exam including measures of gum bleeding and recession, and then were divided into groups based on the severity of their gum disease. About 4.500 participants were assessed at the study conclusion.

Of those diagnosed with severe gum disease at the start, 22 percent developed dementia, even if they kept some teeth. Only 14 percent of those with healthy gums and teeth developed dementia. Researchers caution that their results show an association- not proof- that poor oral health causes dementia, saying that more studies are needed to establish a definitive causal link.

You can learn more by going to www.alz.org/help-support/resources or the
Alzheimer’s Helpline which is accessible 24/7 via 800-272-3900 and staffed
by master’s level clinicians to assist with crisis situations, decision making,
and disease information. You can find virtual dementia caregiver resources
online at alz.org/covid19help. Tools and support are also available in Spanish.
Want to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association and what they do here
in St. Louis? Visit alz.org and/or contact PUCC’s Faith Outreach Ambassador
with the Alzheimer’s Association, Joyce Ruiz at joyceruiz7@gmail.com.