June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

June 2nd, 2026

Q: Why is a periodontal and dental implants practice discussing brain health?

A: Studies point to a key relationship between your brain health and oral health.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementia

The cognitive impairment and behavioral changes caused by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are devastating realities for many individuals and their families. As a matter of fact, the Alzheimer’s Association shows us that more than 55 million individuals having Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Also, two-thirds of all Americans having at least one major potential risk for dementia.

A Link Between Your Brain Health and Oral Health

Research continues to find a correlation between periodontitis (severe gum disease) and cognitive decline. It’s a bi-directional relationship in that it’s thought that the chronic inflammation and infection of gum disease promotes neurodegeneration, and that cognitive impairment causes a decline in oral hygiene habits. Studies note how the bacteria of severe gum disease travels through the bloodstream on a “toxic highway” from the mouth to the brain.

What Can You Do?

Delta Dental shows us that even though a family history of Alzheimer’s may predispose an individual to developing the disease, healthier lifestyle habits, including brushing teeth twice daily and flossing, may help delay the disease. In general, the following steps are important:

  • Keeping a healthy diet and weight
  • Exercising 150 minutes a week
  • NOT SMOKING (that includes chewing tobacco and vaping)
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Only moderately consuming alcohol

Help Yourself Today

If you’ve been diagnosed with gum (periodontal) disease, regular visits to your periodontal hygienists and dental specialists are critical. We can treat severe gum disease by removing the plaque buildup under the gum line. Make the move to improve your oral and overall health today by calling South Florida Center for Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at 561-912-9993. You do not need a referral!