Are you aware of all the serious health risks that exist when you have poor oral health?
When you lack proper oral hygiene, you risk suffering from tooth decay, gum disease, periodontitis, and more.
These dental health complications can become more serious and life-threatening if left untreated.
Did you know that you can also develop brain-related complications when you neglect your oral health care?
That’s right: studies found a link between poor oral health and poor brain health.
What does that mean for you?
Your oral health can affect your brain health. And this is perhaps one of the most dangerous outcomes that can result from bad dental hygiene.
Not sure if you have poor oral health?
Here are some examples of poor oral hygiene:
- Bad brushing habits
- Neglecting to floss
- Grinding your teeth
- Eating foods high in sugar
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
And much more…
Teeth brushing tip: for good oral health, you should brush your teeth 2-3 times daily and floss daily.
Do you want to make sure you maintain a healthy mouth so you can prevent severe brain-related diseases from happening to you?
In this article, you will learn…
- How your teeth and your brain are connected
- Brain health complications that can result from poor oral health
- Signs you might be experiencing tooth decay or gum disease
- What you can do to keep your teeth healthy and thriving
And much, much more…
Table of Contents
The Link Between Your Oral Health And Your Brain Health
Your Teeth and Your Brain Are More Connected Than You Think
Did you know your teeth are directly connected to your brain?
There are multiple nerves in the oral cavity that attach to your brain. For instance, the trigeminal nerve is a cranial nerve that connects your teeth, gums, jaw, and more.
As a result, an untreated tooth infection can quickly become a brain infection. This happens when the tooth infection spreads to the bloodstream, which carries bacteria straight to the brain.
At this point, the bacterial infection attacks neurons found in the brain, which puts you at risk of memory loss and other life-altering complications.
In severe cases, a brain abscess can form. This a rare condition in which pus invades the brain.
Symptoms of a Brain Infection From Teeth:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Trouble remembering
- Increased confusion
- Reduced mobility
- Vision changes
And more…
Special note: if you think you might be experiencing a brain infection from poor oral health, visit your trusted dentist right away.
Now that you know how dental hygiene affects brain health, let’s look at the most common brain disease caused by poor dental hygiene.
Dementia And Poor Oral Health
The Most Common Brain Disease Caused By Poor Dental Hygiene
Dementia is a prevalent condition that causes memory loss. It is also one of the most common brain diseases caused by poor dental hygiene.
The memory loss caused by dementia can be so extreme that it impacts daily functioning.
Though dementia usually occurs in old age, it can happen much sooner if oral health complications are involved.
Read on to learn more about the link between neglected oral health and dementia.
How Poor Dental Health Causes Dementia:
- Gum Disease And Dementia — Did you know you are more likely to develop dementia if you suffer from gum disease? Studies found a connection between gum disease and cognitive decline and a direct link between periodontal disease and dementia. Some studies even suggest that gum disease can be a catalyst for Alzheimer’s. As your dentist, how can you keep the disease under control if you have the early stages of gum disease, also known as gingivitis?
- Tooth Infection And Memory Loss — Did you know an untreated cavity can lead to dementia? A tooth infection can result in memory loss when the infection spreads to the brain. When your cavity reaches the tooth’s root, the infection threatens nerves and blood vessels, which directly connect to the brain. Stop the infection from spreading by maintaining proper oral hygiene, and be sure to visit your dentist regularly.
- Tooth Loss And Dementia — Did you know a mouth full of teeth is less likely to develop dementia later in life? Studies show that severe tooth loss and dementia are connected. While the reason for the connection remains unproven, there is certainly a link. If you have lost a lot of teeth over the years, you might be at a higher risk of getting this brain disease.
Signs Of Tooth Decay And Gum Disease
Are You Experiencing Any Of These Symptoms?
Don’t let your dental health complications go undetected. Keep dementia and brain disease from happening to you when you maintain proper oral health.
Keep reading to discover the signs and symptoms of common dental health issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Signs of Tooth Decay:
- Toothache
- Loose teeth
- Teeth falling out
And more…
Did you know… you might not experience any symptoms of tooth decay. Visit your trusted Leander family dentist to learn for sure.
Signs of Gum Disease:
- Toothache
- Bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums
- Gum tenderness and pain
And more…
Now that you know the main signs and symptoms of tooth decay and gum disease. Let’s talk about what you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy for the long term.
What You Can Do To Keep Your Teeth Healthy & Thriving
Protect Your Brain Health By Preventing Poor Dental Health
Do you want to minimize your risk of developing brain diseases like memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s?
You can prevent poor brain health by maintaining proper oral hygiene.
Here are the top three things you should do to keep your teeth healthy and thriving:
- Brush your teeth 2-3 times per day
- Floss your teeth at least once per day
- Visit your family dentist regularly
Do you need a new family dentist?
Great news: the best dental office in Leander is accepting new patients right now.
Don’t Wait Any Longer – Visit Your Leander Family Dentist Now
Schedule Your Appointment With Apple Springs Family Dentistry
Are you past due for your routine teeth cleaning?
Remember, depending on your oral health history; you should get your teeth professionally cleaned every 6 to 12 months.
If it’s been a while since your last check-up or if you’re experiencing symptoms of tooth decay or gum disease, don’t wait any longer.
Schedule your appointment with Apple Springs Family Dentistry right now.
Apple Springs Family Dentistry is the most trusted family dentistry in Leander, Texas, and the surrounding area.
With a welcoming atmosphere and a skilled staff, you will always feel comfortable and taken care of at this quality dental office.
Contact us or call to schedule your visit right now.
