Study participants with a type of bacteria associated with gum disease were more likely to suffer some form of cognitive impairment.
People have been warned that skipping an important hygiene routine in the bathroom could raise their risk for dementia. A new study has revealed that brushing your teeth and flossing may not only help prevent cavities and gum disease but could be linked to cognitive health.
Researchers discovered that specific mouth bacteria were linked to differing cognitive test scores. And people with a type of bacteria associated with gum disease were also more likely to suffer some form of cognitive impairment.
As part of the research, scientists from the University of Exeter along with collaborators studied the mouth bacteria of 120 older adults. Half of these participants had previously been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition that can impact memory and cognitive abilities, potentially increasing the risk of dementia.
The remaining half were healthy individuals of similar age groups. The research, published in PNAS Nexus, revealed patterns in the bacterial communities present in the participants’ mouths.
As reported by Study Finds, two types of bacteria, Neisseria and Haemophilus, were linked to better performance in memory and cognitive tests. Conversely, certain bacteria, particularly Prevotella, were associated with lower scores in these tests.
A significant discovery of the study was related to the APOE4 gene, known to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals carrying this gene were found to have higher levels of a specific bacteria, Prevotella intermedia, in their mouths.
This indicates that genetic factors could be linked to variations in oral bacterial composition. However, the study did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
The study also explored the potential connection between these bacteria and biochemical processes within the body. Certain oral bacteria assist in processing nitrate, a compound found in foods such as beetroot and leafy greens, transforming it into molecules that contribute to circulation and brain function.
The research indicated that individuals with higher levels of Neisseria and Haemophilus bacteria had microbial communities linked to nitrate-related biochemical pathways. However, it did not establish that these bacteria directly enhance nitrate processing.
Another key discovery involved Porphyromonas gingivalis, a type of bacteria known to cause gum disease. Participants with mild cognitive impairment were found to have elevated levels of these bacteria compared to those without cognitive issues. This further supports the growing evidence of a link between oral health and brain health.
The researchers also identified that certain combinations of bacteria appeared to be particularly significant. The combination of Neisseria and Haemophilus showed the strongest statistical correlation with cognitive test performance, particularly in participants with mild cognitive impairment.
However, it’s crucial to highlight that the study only identified associations. It did not confirm that these bacteria directly impact cognitive function.
These results could be especially pertinent for individuals who carry the APOE4 gene. Given that these people typically exhibit different bacterial patterns in their oral cavity, a heightened focus on dental hygiene might prove advantageous.
However, further studies are required. These could try to ascertain whether particular dental care approaches could aid in reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
This is not the first time that oral health has been linked to dementia. A large study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease in 2020, showed that older adults with signs of gum disease and mouth infections at baseline were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s during the study period.
To keep your mouth and teeth healthy, the NHS recommends you:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Floss between your teeth
- Cut down on sugar
- Eat well
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol
- Have regular dental checkups.
If you notice any problems with your teeth you should book an appointment with your dentist.
