Discover the connection between Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and oral health problems. See how one affects the others and get helpful dental hygiene tips for individuals with special needs.

The Relationship Between Gum Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease

Meet Dr. Patel, holistic dentist and authority on oral systemic health

One surprising connection between the mouth and the body is the link between gingivitis and Alzheimer’s disease. When a person’s gums are infected, it releases inflammatory markers into the bloodstream.

These can then travel to the brain, where they hasten the development of amyloid plaques. These are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, and when there is more plaque in the brain, it can interfere with the critical communication between synapses. As a result, patients experience worsening cognitive decline.

“Dr. Patel has been my dentist for over 15 years and there is no one I trust more with my teeth. What I like most is that she leans towards preventative care. I had so many dental issues before coming to her, and she has systematically and thoroughly addressed them all with professionalism and care. If you are looking for a long term dentist, I highly recommend Dr. Patel.” – Caroline B., March 2025
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A Challenging Cycle to Break

Not only are seniors with gum disease more likely to develop Alzheimer’s, but patients with cognitive decline often find it more difficult to maintain adequate oral hygiene. As dementia progresses, a patient’s ability to function on their own diminishes.

Forgetting about showering, brushing teeth, and changing their clothes is often one of the first challenges these patients face. The result is a bidirectional relationship where gum disease worsens Alzheimer’s and Alzheimer’s worsens gum disease.

Other Effects of Periodontitis

  • Chronic inflammation caused by periodontal infections have a negative impact on the blood-brain barrier. This protects the brain from harmful substances, and disruption can allow toxins and bacteria from the mouth to reach brain tissue.
  • Untreated gingivitis is also linked to other systemic health conditions, like heart attacks and diabetes, hormonal imbalances, digestion and mental health problems, auto-immune disorders and respiratory diseases, headaches and arthritis, and many more.

Did You Know?

A recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease revealed that seniors with gingivitis or periodontal disease were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s during the study period.

How to Help a Family Member with Alzheimer’s Fight Gum Disease

If you have a loved one with dementia or memory loss, you can help them keep their mouth healthy by:

  • Making sure oral hygiene items are out on the counter where they can be seen
  • Choosing items that are colorful, visually interesting, and taste good to make using them more appealing
  • Setting reminders on your loved one’s phone, tablet, or alarm clock (include a note that explains what the reminder is for)
  • Putting a clear, easy-to-read sign near the mirror or sink that explain the steps needed to brush, floss, and use mouthwash
  • Making a fun activity out of brushing your teeth with your loved one

Remember that memory loss can be frightening or confusing for the person experiencing it. Being gentle, encouraging, and consistent with your loved one is one of the most effective ways to help them achieve oral hygiene goals.

Holistic Dental Exams

At Green Dentistry, we look at patients as a whole and develop treatment plans designed to reduce the risk of serious health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Patel thoroughly evaluates each patient’s oral health and considers how it may be affecting them systemically. During this appointment, issues like gingivitis and cavities are identified, and patients and/or their families receive education on the next steps.

Periodontal Care

We provide complete periodontal care and offer innovative treatments like deep cleanings and ozone therapy that clean the mouth and kill bacteria that cause gum infections. Together, we can reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and improve quality of life for yourself or someone you love.

The Green Dentistry Difference

At Green Dentistry, we strive to build life-long relationships with our patients to help them feel secure about their smiles today and for many years to come. We want our patients to feel confident in the work we do together to give them not only beautiful smiles but also functionality and oral health to last a lifetime. We are also proud to give back — to people who are in need and to the environment that surrounds us. We are excited to make you the newest member of our holistic dental care family.
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Your Comfort Matters to Us

Our Union Square dentist in San Francisco ensures our office is a place where you can relax and put your health and wellness first, allowing yourself recovery and restoration. We provide a number of spa-like services to our patients in order to relieve discomfort and improve relaxation, such as:

  • Aromatherapy
  • Neck wraps and heated blankets
  • Healing with essential oils and crystals
  • Noise-cancelling headphones

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  • Produce 260 lbs of fresh oxygen
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  • Provide shade and habitat for birds, squirrels, and other animals

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San Francisco, home of holistic cosmetic and restorative dentist Dr. Nammy Patel

The best holistic dental care in the San Francisco Bay Area!

We look forward to welcoming you and helping you on your journey to an amazing smile and life-long health!

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Dr. Nammy Patel and her team at Green Dentistry in Downtown San Francisco, California, provide quality dentistry with a holistic approach. They offer their patients exceptional care and service in cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign treatment, laser dentistry, sleep apnea treatment, general holistic dentistry and so much more. They even offer sedation dentistry to their patients. They serve patients throughout the Bay Area. SF Green Dentist is within walking distance from Downtown and the Financial District.

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