Hundreds of species of bacteria roam inside the human mouth

Several of them can lead to periodontal disease. The disease arises from infected oral tissues that hold teeth in place, which cause bleeding gums and even tooth loss.

A new study by the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that the same bacteria that cause gum disease are associated with related dementia illness, including vascular dementia.

Gum disease is also traced to systemic illnesses such as respiratory disease, chronic kidney disease, obesity, arthritis and cognitive impairment.

It is widely believed that the migration of bacteria and inflammatory molecules via the bloodstream from the oral infection to the brain is the culprit.

This movement of bacteria to the brain could be one of the many risk factors in the development of cognitive decline. No large study, however, has provided clarity on how strong the link is.

Using large data sets from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers searched for a link between infections with oral bacteria and dementia diagnoses.

The team took a close look at the antibodies of 19 oral bacteria to see if there were any association with the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

One of the 19 bacteria is a leading cause of gum disease. It turns out that the plaques of beta-amyloid protein, which is widely seen as a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, possibly develop in response to this infection.

Among older adults, both Alzheimer’s diagnoses and associated deaths were linked with antibodies against other bacteria, some of which interact with other bacteria that could increase health risk factors.

The study also showed that older adults with signs of gum disease or mouth infection were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s over a long period of time.

Researchers stressed that the population study is more illustrative of an association between gum disease and dementia and not a causal relationship.

Clinical trials can provide greater insights into whether treating oral bacterial infections will reduce the development or symptoms of dementia.

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Nurturing Mental Health: Overcoming Dental Anxiety

By Citracado Dental Group • 25 Apr, 2024

As we make way for May, a month of bright blossoms and the start of warmer weather, we also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month . During this time, we focus our attention on highlighting the fundamental significance of mental wellness. During discussions surrounding anxiety and depression, one topic often overlooked is dental anxiety - an issue that affects millions around the world. Dental anxiety extends beyond mere dislike about going to the dentist. Rather, it is a complex emotional response that can stem from previous experiences, anticipated pain or discomfort or generalized anxiety disorders. For many people, even thinking about dental procedures can trigger intense fear reactions, panic attacks or behaviors aimed at avoiding dental care altogether. Understanding that dental anxiety isn't just about oral health but is often intertwined with broader mental health issues is vital. If you suffer from anxiety disorders or have had traumatic histories, you may be particularly susceptible to dental anxiety. Here are some tips that you can take to help break the cycle of fear and promote overall wellness. Open Communication: Don't hesitate to discuss your trepidation and fears with your dentist. Our team can tailor our approach based on your or your child’s individual needs and offer comforting reassurances throughout your appointment. Relaxation Techniques: Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation before and during your dental appointment. These methods can reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of calmness. Gradual Exposure: If you find yourself overwhelmed by dread at the thought of visiting the dentist, consider gradually exposing yourself to different aspects of it – start with neutral activities like sitting in the waiting room or discussing treatment plans. Sedation Dentistry: If you grapple with intense dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer significant relief. This method employs medication to induce relaxation during dental procedures, leading to a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Seeking Professional Assistance: If dental anxiety is significantly disrupting your daily life, it might be helpful to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy offers valuable coping strategies and tools to effectively help manage your feelings. Dental anxiety doesn't only affect adults - children can also struggle with it, often due to fear of the unknown or past negative experiences. As parents and caregivers, it's essential to establish positive connections with dental care early on. Here are some suggestions: Early Familiarization: Introduce children to the dental environment well before their first appointment. This can help them become used to both their surroundings and the dental team. Role-playing: Encourage pretend play at home that simulates dentist visits. This helps children grow comfortable with the concept of dental procedures in a fun, secure and non-threatening environment. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child's bravery during dentist appointments. Emphasize the role of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Plus, many little ones look forward to a visit to the toy chest after a visit! While dental anxiety can present a significant challenge to achieving optimal oral health and overall wellness, by addressing the mental health aspects of dental anxiety and applying practical coping strategies, both adults and children can overcome fears and foster positive experiences with dentistry. At Citracado Dental Group, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. We recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety in some patients, and we strive to surpass expectations in providing a pleasant and positive experience for every patient. Your visit to our office is not just about dental care; it's about feeling relaxed and at ease during your time with us. To help make this happen, we have a selection of great amenities lined up to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. From neck or back pillows and soft blankets to bottled water or juice selections, we aim to create a soothing environment where you can unwind. Need to zone out? You can enjoy your favorite music on a personal iPad or indulge in a hot cup of gourmet coffee or tea from our bar. We also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, headphones for your listening pleasure, and even facial towels and lip balm for an extra special touch. We’re committed to ensuring your trip to our office is an enjoyable one! Schedule your next visit by calling or texting 760-489-5545.