Dental
In many cases, most folks just hope their grin is memorable. They want others to be impressed by their clean and healthy smile. However, there’s a rather strong connection between good oral hygiene and memory itself. New research implies a strong and vibrant mouth also helps you recall short-term memories. As for the details, your Lincoln dentist will gladly explain. Here’s a primer on how a healthy smile strengthens your memory, why the two are linked, and ways to protect your oral health.
Healthy Smile = Strong Memory
Based on the latest science, a strong smile benefits more than your mouth. It seems that good oral health promotes good brain health.
This conclusion is rooted in a 2023 study published in Neurology®, the American Academy of Neurology medical journal. Researchers found that gum disease and tooth loss were often linked to a shrunken hippocampus, which plays a role in memory and Alzheimer’s disease. In particular, the number of teeth lost and amount of infected gums predicted changes in the brain region.
Still, the study authors weren’t saying gum disease and tooth loss cause memory issues. They emphasized that their research only shows an association.
Why Your Mouth & Brain Relate
Citing the study above, many scientists believe that a mouth’s health affects the brain. The state of your smile will impact your memory recall and other cognitive skills.
The top theory for why the mouth and brain relate points to inflammation. More specifically, the idea is that bacteria that cause gum disease can spread to other organs. These microbes can likely inflame your brain tissue – including the hippocampus – and make it shrink, leading to a decline in memory.
How to Keep Your Mouth Healthy
Given this latest research, you should keep your mouth healthy so your brain stays sharp. All you need to do is follow tips like:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene – As you already should, brush your teeth twice daily and floss between them once daily. Doing so could enhance brain health along with oral health.
- Don’t Smoke – Using tobacco makes you more likely to get gum disease. So, try to avoid this substance as best you can.
- Get Regular Dental Care – If you see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, your smile will avoid serious oral problems. That means your brain would also benefit!
There’s still more to learn about the connection between good oral hygiene and memory. In the meantime, don’t forget to look after your teeth and gums!
About the Practice
Parks Family Dental is based in Lincoln, NE. Led by Dr. Wesley Parks, our practice combines professional dental care with close and attentive relationships. That means we personalize our patients’ treatments to suit their unique smiles, ensuring the best results possible. Whether it’s preventive, cosmetic, or restorative work, our team will tailor it to meet your dental needs! For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (402)-484-6042.