Brushing teeth serves more than good oral hygiene, as researchers from the University of Bergen (UiB) in Norway have found that gingivitis (gum disease) is a causative factor for developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers previously discovered a link that bacteria causing gingivitis can travel from the mouth to the brain, and now, there is DNA-based proof of the process. It is also clear that the bacteria produce harmful enzymes that destroy nerve cells in the brain, which leads to memory loss and ultimately, Alzheimer´s.

Piotr Mydel at UiB’s Broegelmanns Research Laboratory points out that the bacteria itself does not cause Alzheimer´s, but their presence substantially increases the risk of a more rapid progression of the disease. This comes after Mydel examined 53 patients with Alzheimer´s – the enzymes were discovered in 96% of the cases.

In trying to tackle the problem, the researchers have developed a prototype drug that blocks the harmful enzymes from the bacteria, thus postponing the development of Alzheimer´s. The drug will go into testing later in 2019.

Meanwhile, self-care goes a long way in slowing down Alzheimer’s: brush your teeth, floss and visit your dentist regularly. These are especially important if you have gingivitis and Alzheimer´s in your family.