22/10/2026
🦷 Did you know researchers have found oral bacteria in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease? 🧠
This is something pretty fascinating that researchers have been investigating!
One bacterium getting a lot of attention is Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), which is associated with periodontal disease (gum disease).
🔬 In a 2019 study, researchers detected this bacterium’s DNA and toxic enzymes, called gingipains, in brain tissue from people with Alzheimer’s.
So, what does this mean?
Researchers are investigating whether bacteria associated with gum disease could contribute to inflammation and changes in the brain linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
Does this mean gum disease causes Alzheimer’s? Not necessarily. We don’t have proof of cause and effect yet, and research is ongoing.
What we DO know is that maintaining healthy gums matters. Regular professional dental hygiene care, brushing twice daily and cleaning between your teeth all help manage plaque and periodontal disease.
🦷 Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body, and oral health deserves to be taken seriously!
Just another reason not to ignore bleeding gums or put off taking care of your oral health. ❤️
