Healthy Mouth May Reduce Risk of Dementia and Strokes

There is a link between periodontal (gum) disease and white matter damage to the brain, according to a new study in Neurology Open Access. White matter is the brain’s communication network—the wiring that lets messages travel quickly from one area to another.

“Oral health may play a role in brain health that we are only beginning to understand,” said study author Souvik Sen, MD, MS, MPH, as quoted in SctTechDaily. “While more research is needed to understand this relationship, these findings add to growing evidence that keeping your mouth healthy may support a healthier brain.”

The research suggests that maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting a dentist or periodontist as directed may be an important factor in supporting not only brain health as people age, but also reducing dementia or the risk of vascular strokes.

“Gum disease is preventable and treatable,” Dr. Sen explained. “If future studies confirm this link, it could offer a new avenue for reducing cerebral small vessel disease by targeting oral inflammation. For now, it underscores how dental care may support long-term brain health.