I always dread by semi-annual dentist appointment. It’s not that I hate going to dentist; I just hate being told that I’m not flossing my teeth enough. I know; some of you out there floss every day, but I’m willing to bet there are millions of us who don’t. For some reason, it’s just never been part of my daily routine. After my visit to the dentist, I always floss for about a week or two because I feel guilty and ashamed. But pretty soon, things go back to the way they were. Now, don’t worry, I brush my teeth quite a few times during the day, but I just don’t floss.
Interestingly enough, brushing and flossing not only gives you a picture perfect smile, but it can also deter you from developing brain dysfunctions. Who knew that by simply brushing and flossing your teeth you could be decreasing your chances of experiencing an ischemic stroke?
Do you know that there might be a link between oral health and brain health?
According to a study done by the Harvard School of Public Health, oral health can be linked to brain health. The study proves that maintaining a high level of oral health reduces an individual’s chances of experiencing an ischemic stroke. This type of stroke happens when there is a decreased level of blood supply to the brain. This can cause dysfunction of the brain tissue in that particular area.
In HSPH’s study, they found a significantly higher correlation between oral health and brain health among men. Men who suffer from dental disease have more than a 50% greater chance of developing an ischemic stroke. Previously, scientists believe that periodontal health could be linked to all types of cardiovascular diseases.
Dental diseases can affect the brain because they cause inflammation and infection throughout the body.
However, through this study, they were able to pinpoint the correlation between oral health and ischemic strokes. The study showed that men who have 24 teeth or less have a 57% higher risk of having an ischemic stroke than men who have at least 25 teeth.
Studies conducted by King’s College London show similar findings to the one conducted by HSPH. Scientists at King’s College London state that teeth loss can augment an individual’s chances of brain dysfunction up to 357 times. Dental diseases can affect the brain because they cause inflammation and infection throughout the body.
Could oral health also be linked to Alzheimer’s disease? Could there be a link between our memory function and oral health? The British Dental Health Foundation has been awarded a research grant to conduct a study on this particular question.
A study conducted in 2008 showed a possible link between gum disease and minor memory loss. This grant will help scientists further study the possible link between oral health and memory loss. The funding for this study will also allow scientists to study the connection between oral health and overall brain function over a longer period of time.
What can we learn from this? It’s time we really start listening to our dentist’s advice, and brush our teeth about three times a day and floss daily. It can potentially save your brains!
Photo by jaygooby
