Brushing and Flossing Teeth May Be Key to Reducing Alzheimer's Risk

A study from the University of Bergen published in Science Advances determined the bacteria that causes gingivitis may eventually infiltrate the brain, and a protein generated by this bacteria kills nerve cells to induce gradual memory loss, reports SlashGear . The implication is that the bacteria may play a key role in triggering the development of Alzheimer's, as well as accelerate the disease's progression. The researchers suggest brushing and flossing teeth can help prevent this outcome. This study is the first to identify DNA evidence for gingivitis-related bacteria spreading from the mouth to the brain, where damaging enzymes are produced. Of the 53 people with Alzheimer's included in the research, 96 percent exhibited the harmful protein.