Periodontitis definition
Periodontal diseases are infections which affect teeth and gums, and are prevalent in some form in about 20-50% of the global population (Nazir, 2017). The diseases affect adolescents, adults, and older individuals and is a serious cause of public concern. Smoking, lack of proper oral hygiene practices, medication, age, stress, and genetics are some risk factors related to periodontal diseases. While tooth loss, dental cavities, and gum disease are common, they are not part of normal aging (An 2009).
Periodontitis and Alzheimer’s disease
Increasingly studies are showing links between periodontal diseases and Alzheimer’s disease. In January 2019, a new study published in the journal Science Advances researchers found evidence of DNA and toxic enzymes, known as gingipains, released by P. gingivalis, the bacterium which causes adult periodontitis in the brain tissue, spinal fluid, and saliva from people with diagnosed with and suspected to have Alzheimer’s disease. Within some trials, the scientists tested drugs that blocked gingipains and found they were able halt the neurodegeneration (Dominy et al, 2019). In another study jointly led by the University of Southampton and King’s College London, “a link was found between gum disease and greater rates of cognitive decline in people with early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. The presence of gum disease was associated with a six-fold increase in the rate of cognitive decline in participants over the six-month follow-up period of the study”.
Periodontitis causes
Our mouths are full of bacteria. Some of these are naturally occurring and essential to maintaining a healthy oral-ecosystem. Others are destructive and grow on particles of food which are not fully removed during brushing and rinsing. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, form a sticky, colourless “plaque” on teeth. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form “tartar” that only a professional can clean. Over time, tartar becomes increasingly harmful and causes inflammation of the gums which is known as ‘gingivitis’. Some symptoms of this disease are bleeding and swollen gums. With daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning, gingivitis can be reversed. If left unchecked, however, it can worsen and lead to periodontitis. “In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called “pockets”) that become infected. Bacterial toxins and the body’s natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If not treated, the bones, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.” (NIH, US)
Periodontitis Stages, Prevention and Treatment
According to TePe Oral Hygiene Products AB, one should take note of the following symptoms as they may be indicative of periodontitis: