Oral health has an intricate relation with our overall health. Any problem related to oral health might manifest as a bigger problem in our body. An infection of the gums, reflecting subacute bacterial endocarditis or diabetes making our teeth more prone to caries, are examples of the connection between oral health and general health.
Dementia is now becoming a major issue for society. Currently, over 55 million people are suffering from it. The experts are expecting double the number in the next 20 years.
Dementia?
Much of the population knows dementia to be a memory problem when, in reality, it is much more complex than that. Dementia is one of the main symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. People with dementia go through various stages of cognitive and behavioral changes. Their personality might change drastically.
It is useful for us to know early signs of dementia as early recognition and diagnosis may have a better prognosis or management of the condition.
Five early signs of dementia are:
- Apathy- When a person loses their emotions and starts to not care about the things that previously were of paramount interest to them.
- No impulse control- When a person can not withstand delayed gratification or can not appreciate others’ viewpoints. This person grows agitated, aggressive, stubborn and rigid with their demands. They might take up habits like alcohol drinking, smoking, gambling and shoplifting. Sometimes, the affected person becomes sexually disinhibited.
- Social Behaviour- People with dementia often start disregarding social boundaries and engage in inappropriate behavior. They might become rude with their words.
- Cognitive dysregulation- Patients start sifting through their emotions. They get angry, sad and worried quite easily.
- Perception difficulties- Individuals become suspicious of everything around them. They start growing distrust of everyone and might see every action as others’ intent of harm.
So, be vigilant about the sudden personality changes among your close ones and try to initiate an open conversation about it.
Oral Health?
As of now, there are many studies and articles on how oral health affects our overall health. A continuous pain in our teeth or gums turns our whole day sour. We are not able to chew food, close our mouths properly or do anything, really, without being reminded of that pain.
In case of infection, there might be a foul smell and a burning ache. An infection might also cause cardiovascular or respiratory issues. In the same way, There is a connection between neural problems, like dementia, and your oral health.
Scientists have found a bacteria that invades our mouth, causes gum infections and can travel to the brain. In the brain, it releases a special kind of enzyme that attacks our nerve cells and leads to dementia. A study found that tooth decay is related to cognitive impairment but not the missing or restored one. Prevalence of caries is also high in people with dementia. Inflammatory markers are found in cases of dementia and poor oral health.
There is enough evidence to consider and explore the connection between oral health and dementia. While they have not yet pinpointed the exact pathophysiology, experts are trying to study many factors related to the topic.
Tips to take care of your oral health?
Keeping your dentition clean and your oral cavity healthy is not a difficult task. While some might face obstacles due to their genetic makeup, financial constraints or social culture, a few small steps will do them well.
- Regular brushing (twice a day) and flossing
- Use of mouthwash
- Use of tongue cleaner
- A good toothpaste
- Regular dentist check-ups (twice a year)
- Eating healthy food
- Avoid sugary eatables
- Drink plenty of water
A good and consistent oral routine might help to avoid or delay many health issues.
Let’s fight actively for our health through regular health checkups and follow ups by doctors, by educating ourselves and society and by staying happy.
Take a moment and breathe.
