June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and how it connects to other areas of health including oral health. To learn more about the national awareness campaign and how you can get involved, visit alz.org/abam/overview.asp. Keep reading to learn how Alzheimer’s Disease and oral health are connected, as well as some tips for caregivers.
When we think about Alzheimer’s disease, we often focus on memory loss, confusion, and changes in behavior. But did you know this condition can also have a significant impact on oral health and vice versa?
At South Gables Dental, we recognize that oral health is deeply tied to overall well-being, especially in patients facing cognitive challenges like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Preventing this disease can be difficult, particularly for those with a family history, but there are important steps that caregivers, family members, and patients can take to support both brain and dental health.
Oral Health and Brain Health: A Two-Way Relationship?
Emerging research suggests a strong link between oral health and cognitive decline, particularly in older adults. Several studies have shown that gum disease and chronic oral inflammation may be associated with an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, Dominy et al. (2019) identified Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key pathogen in gum disease, in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, highlighting a potential causal connection. Similarly, Chen et al. (2017) found that individuals with periodontal disease were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s over a ten-year period. A more recent systematic review by Gaur and Agnihotri (2021) further supports the theory that chronic oral infections may contribute to neurodegeneration through systemic inflammation and bacterial spread.
While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship, maintaining a healthy mouth may play a protective role in preserving brain function as we age. As with many aspects of healthy aging, prevention is essential. This includes daily flossing, brushing at least twice a day, scheduling bi-annual cleanings with a dental hygienist, and following your dentist’s personalized care recommendations.
How Alzheimer’s Can Affect Oral Health
Once someone starts showing signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s, it’s a whole new world for the whole family. And while the neurological issues may garner the most attention, it would be wise not to neglect some of the day-to-day health and hygiene best practices. Pay attention to the below specifically for oral health:
- Daily Care Becomes Difficult:
As Alzheimer’s progresses, brushing and flossing often become harder to remember or perform correctly. Patients may forget steps, feel confused by tools like a toothbrush, or become resistant to help from caregivers (Alzheimer’s Association, 2024). - Medication Side Effects:
Many medications used to manage Alzheimer’s symptoms can cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva production. Saliva is essential to neutralize acids and protect teeth; without it, there’s a higher risk of cavities, gum disease, and infections (National Institute on Aging, 2021 . - Decreased Communication:
Patients may struggle to communicate dental pain or discomfort. A cavity, abscess, or broken tooth could go unnoticed until it leads to more serious issues like infections or difficulty eating.
Tips for Caregivers: Oral Health and Alzheimer’s Disease
If you’re caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, here are a few ways to help them maintain good oral hygiene:
- Establish a Routine: Brush and floss at the same times each day to create familiarity.
- Use Simple Instructions: Break down tasks into easy-to-follow steps. Demonstrating can help.
- Choose the Right Tools: Consider an electric toothbrush, a floss holder, or a brush with a larger handle.
- Monitor the Mouth: Look for signs of swelling, bleeding gums, bad breath, or complaints about pain when eating.
- Keep Up With Dental Visits: Regular checkups are key, especially for catching issues early before they worsen.
- Don’t Neglect Your Own Health and Well-Being: It’s easy for caregivers to devote most of their time caring for their loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and to neglect their own needs. Please do what you can to take time for yourself. It’s okay. For more resources in South Florida, visit the Southeast Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.
(Alzheimer’s Society UK, 2023)
Compassionate Care at South Gables Dental
Thank you for reading this resource about how Alzheimer’s Disease and Oral Health are connected. At South Gables Dental, we provide gentle, patient-centered care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive conditions. Our team is trained to approach every patient with understanding, patience, and respect adapting our techniques to meet their needs.
Whether you’re a caregiver or a concerned family member, we’re here to help you maintain your loved one’s oral health and comfort throughout every stage of life.
Sources:
- Alzheimer’s Association. (2024). Oral care. Retrieved from: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care/oral-care
- Alzheimer’s Association. (2025). Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. Retrieved from: https://www.alz.org/abam/overview.asp
- Dominy, S. S., et al. (2019). Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors. Science Advances, 5(1), eaau3333. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aau3333
- Chen, C. K., Wu, Y. T., & Chang, Y. C. (2017). Association between chronic periodontitis and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease: A retrospective, population-based, matched-cohort study.
Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, 9(1), 56. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5444177/ - National Institute on Aging. (2021). Alzheimer’s Disease Fact Sheet. Retrieved from: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet
- Alzheimer’s Society (UK). (2023). Oral care and dementia. Retrieved from: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/oral-care
