The progressive loss of memory and cognitive function from conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease has been shown to impact oral health. Researchers throughout the United States have discovered these connections and determined that to help patients receive better quality dental care, emphasizing good oral hygiene habits and visiting the dentist are important preventative measures for better oral health, especially for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

What Studies Say About Alzheimer’s

Studies from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and Dentistry Journal emphasize the importance of good oral health. Establishing these oral habits will help those with Alzheimer’s disease keep their teeth healthy.

In the study reported by Dentistry Journal, the report looked at the determining factors for dementia, its characterizations, and how the loss of cognitive function impairs memory. Periodontal disease and tooth loss present problems because of harmful bacteria, and its pro-inflammatory agents can negatively influence cognitive function in the brain. Tooth loss can also lead to poor nutrition, which can also negatively affect brain function. Dental rehabilitation for those with Alzheimer’s disease takes more dedicated amounts of care, and through analyzing published bibliographical articles collected between February 2018 and October 2018, the outcome showed that there is a more significant loss of teeth in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and that their loss of dental health decreases their quality of life.

Among the other study, researchers observed the effects of Alzheimer’s on a person’s quality of life, their financial dependency, and how the lack of cause only leads physicians to determine its stages by observation during diagnosis throughout its locations. When observing Alzheimer’s and oral health, patients with Alzheimer’s have a higher risk of developing root cavities and orofacial pain. The impact of the condition can lead to reduced cognition when performing oral hygiene habits. Throughout this report, controlling dental disease and enhancing the quality of life for elderly patients revolves around giving better access to these services and providing more tailored dental plans that meet their needs, including providing minimally invasive dentistry services to reduce dental risks.

How Do Dentists Approach Alzheimer’s Disease

When it comes to the quality of life for older adults, these patients’ physical and psychological well-being starts with providing better approaches to preventative care and dental health. For dentists, our goal for caring for older generations begins with taking steps towards better oral health, including:

• Preventative Treatments: Fluoride treatments and dental sealants provide scientifically backed measures against cavities and tooth decay. These treatments can help reduce the risk of poor oral health later on in life.
• Tailored Care Plans: For families with older members, seeking out long term solutions takes all factors into account. For reliable dentists, providing specialized plans to meet patients’ needs helps reduce cavities and tooth loss.
• Minimally Invasive Treatments: For the elderly seeking restorative treatments, minimally invasive options such as veneers and crowns can help reduce further tooth loss and help maintain jaw health.

Research into these topics can help dentists, and their patients have a better understanding of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and how it affects a person’s oral health, and through this research, give dentists the tools they need to help their patients.