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The Times of India
The Times of India
Lifestyle
TIMESOFINDIA.COM

Poor dental health can make your brain shrink

Did you think not brushing your teeth can only cause a cavity? Think twice before skipping oral health. Poor oral hygiene can increase your chance of getting gum disease, dental cavities, and a host of other health issues, including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Recently, a new study by Japanese researchers found a connection between poor dental health and a reduction in brain volume, indicating that maintaining excellent oral health is crucial for maintaining good brain health.

Gum disease and tooth loss have been linked to brain shrinkage in the hippocampus, which is involved in memory and Alzheimer's disease, according to research from Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan. Does this imply that tooth loss or gum disease can lead to Alzheimer's disease? The study simply demonstrates a connection, not a confirmation.

Gum disease, tooth cavities, and a number of other health problems, such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, can all be increased by poor oral hygiene. According to a study from Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, gum disease and tooth loss have been connected to brain shrinkage in the hippocampus, which is important in memory and Alzheimer's disease. Does this suggest that gum disease or tooth loss can cause Alzheimer's disease? The study does not prove anything; it only shows a link.

They discovered a connection between tooth loss and gum disease as well as changes in the left hippocampus of the brain when they compared the test findings from the beginning of the trial and those from four years later.

Both individuals with mild gum disease who had fewer teeth and those with severe gum disease who had more teeth showed a greater rate of brain shrinkage in the left hippocampus.

Maintaining excellent oral health is essential for maintaining good brain health. More so, after it is discovered that poor tooth health can lead to a reduction in brain volume.

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