Prevent Alzheimer’s by Brushing Teeth: Learn from the Expert Dr. Cameron Clokie

We are all aware of the condition we call Alzheimer’s. The irreversible illness and each year affect more and more individuals in 30 to 60 years and beyond. This progressive brain disorder is one of the leading causes of death in the US, estimated to be on the list right after heart disease and cancer. With no cure known thus far, prevention is the only key to stay free of this disabling condition. The reason is that it destroys memory and thinking skills, slowly and steadily to the point of total disability and death. 

How to Preventing Alzheimer’s? 

As much of a fear-monger as it may sound like, there are still ways to prevent it or deter it from slowing down its progression. Experts tend to state that healthier lifestyles with good food and more exercise help keep the disease at bay. Eating more fruits and vegetables, maintaining personal hygiene, and avoiding health hazards such as smoking and heavy drinking are to name a few. But one particularly underestimated daily activity plays a crucial role in helping prevent several health conditions, including Alzheimer’s: 

That activity is taking care of oral hygiene through regular brushing. This statement was brought forward by one of Canada’s finest oral surgeons, Dr. Cameron Clokie.

What Dr. Clokie Has to Say

Dr. Clokie is a well-renowned Canadian oral surgeon who also happens to be a maxillofacial surgeon, scientist, serial entrepreneur, and CEO of Induce Biologics Inc. He has published several papers and presentations on various topics. He recently came forward with his analysis and research that oral hygiene can prevent several significant diseases. Those diseases might include heart disease, problems with the liver and kidney, and even Alzheimer’s. 

Furthermore, the doctor states that unhealthy teeth and gums turn out to be the root causes of these diseases in some instances. Thus, it helps conclude that proper oral care will lead to the prevention of these life-threatening diseases.         

Study at The University of Bergen

To back the statement from Cameron Clokie, researchers in Norway lead by Piotr Mydel of the University of Bergen have exposed a well-defined connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s. They found via DNA analysis that the bacteria that causes gingivitis can travel from the mouth up to the brain, contributing to the development of Alzheimer’s. 

It happens because the bacteria create a protein in the form of a harmful enzyme causing the obliteration of nerve cells in the brain. Mydel said that the bacteria raise the risk of developing the disease in an individual and act as a catalyst, propagating the condition and making it worse. 

The Conclusion – Brush Your Teeth!

Fortunately, both Mydel and Dr. Clokie emphasize that this cause of the dreaded condition, amongst others, can be prevented easily by maintaining proper oral hygiene. For example, the following points will help prevent plaque and bacterial build-up in your teeth and gums:

• Brushing regularly twice to thrice a day, especially after meals and sugary treats that might accelerate teeth rot.
• Making use of toothpaste that does not carry excessive or strong chemicals.
• Flossing regularly to help remove any food debris that toothbrushes could not manage to reach.