Why Dental Checkups are Important for Geriatric Patients
Professional dental care is recommended by the American Dental Association for at least once every six months. Geriatric patients, however, may benefit from more frequent dental visits, to prevent gum disease. With 5 million people already suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, studies suggest that with the Baby Boomer generation, that number may increase to 8.5 million. Preventing gum disease may lower your risk of Alzheimer’s. Our Fresno dentist, Dr. Denes discusses how gum disease affects your risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The Connection Between Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s
Developing research has connected oral health with total well being from TMJ disorder and headaches, to gum disease and pregnancy complications. One study in particular may be more concerning for our senior patients. Gum disease increases your risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The reasoning behind this study is that the inflammation of the gum tissue is related to brain inflammation which destroys brain cells. Alzheimer’s patients have higher levels of inflammatory molecules and antibodies in their plasma than healthy patients.
Studies Suggest Periodontal Disease Increases Alzheimer’s Risk
Researchers at New York University suggest that long term periodontal disease infection makes sufferers more susceptible to the cognitive function related to Alzheimer’s. This theory applies to both cognitively healthy patients with gum disease as well as those already cognitively impaired. Scores from a standard measurement of adult IQ showed that subjects ranging from age 50 to 70 with periodontal disease were nine times more likely to score in the lower range. With more Alzheimer’s research pointing to a periodontal connection, preventive dentistry for geriatric patients, such as gum disease screenings, have become even more important.
Geriatric Dentistry in Fresno
At Fresno Dental Studios, we pride ourselves on offering quality dentistry to all members of the family. Since the risk of gum disease increases over the age of 40, mature adult patients can benefit from the meticulous gum disease screenings we provide at every dental checkup in Fresno. For more information or to schedule a dental exam, contact our Fresno family dentist at (559) 297-1800.