Riley Dental Associates of Central Virginia
Phone: (434) 385-7707
Url:
3709 Old Forest Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501

Lynchburg VA Dentist | Gum Health and Alzheimer’s Disease

Your gum health may have an impact on your cognitive function. One recent study found a correlation between gum disease and increased cognitive decline for people living with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. While more studies are needed to make a definitive connection, this study illustrates the importance of continuing the conversation about oral health and its impact on your entire body.  

Details of the Study 

The study was administered by King’s College London and the University of Southampton. It observed 59 patients with early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Blood tests were utilized to examine inflammatory markers present in the bloodstream, while patients’ dental health was examined by dental hygienists.  

What it Found 

The study found that patients with gum disease experienced cognitive decline at a rate 6 times faster than those without gum disease. The study suggested that the body’s reaction to inflammation may be responsible for causing the rapid decrease in brain function. 

Importance of Healthy Gums 

Previous studies have determined that gum disease can increase your risk of developing complications such as heart disease and stroke. Maintaining healthy gums is essential to staying healthy overall. You can keep your gums healthy by following good daily oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing twice each day for two minutes, as well as flossing regularly. 

For those living with Alzheimer’s disease, it is imperative to maintain good oral health. If you are a caregiver of someone with the disease, make sure they are following an effective daily oral hygiene routine, as well as visiting our office for regular examinations. Keeping your gums healthy may be one key to keeping your body and brain healthy throughout your lifetime. 

For more information about gum health, or to schedule your next visit to our office, please contact us. 

Riley Dental Associates of Central Virginia Phone: (434) 385-7707 Url: https://rileydentalassociates.com/ 3709 Old Forest Road Lynchburg, VA 24501

CONTACT OUR
Lynchburg Dental Office

Lynchburg, VA Dentist

Riley Dental Associates, PC

3709 Old Forest Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501
(434) 385-7707

Providing dental care for the communities of:

Appomattox | Lynchburg | Altavista | Amherst | Big Island | Brookneal | Coleman Falls | Concord | Evington | Forest | Gladys | Goode | Hurt | Long Island Lynch Station | Monroe | Naruna | Rustburg | Spout Spring | Sweet Briar

Convenient Office Hours:

Monday:   8am - 5pm
Tuesday:   8am - 5pm
Wednesday:   8am - 5pm
Thursday:   8am - 5pm
Friday:   7am - 3pm

View Our Office Tour
  • American Dental Association
  • Virginia Dental Association

SEE WHAT OUR
PATIENTS ARE SAYING

Lynchburg, VA Dentist

"Love my Dentist office. The receptionist is always so polite and informative. They greet you with a smile and make you feel so at ease. I love my hygenist, she is wonderful and so understanding and gentle. My dentist is truly the best!! I love his casualness and expertise. He doesn't make you feel as if you are just a patient, he makes you feel like family, and actually, so does the entire team at Riley Dental. I have been going to Riley Dentist since my children had their first check-ups and they love him as well."

Betty N.

"I am taking a teeth wellness journey after raising 4 kids and putting them first, me last. I also have had trauma seeing a dentist and so it was no easy feat to begin. The staff here are excellent and professional. Very calming, friendly and understanding. I appreciated the hygienist numbing my gums today for my cleaning. Last time I had this done I was in terrible pain. This time was pain free!! Big work ahead but these are the people I want to take care of me!"

Andrea B.

"I was new to the area and the courteous and professional staff at Riley were able to help me get plugged in right away. They also have knowledgeable staff about insurance policies and claims. This is definitely where I will be going now that I am in Lynchburg."

David B.

"The staff at this practice are amazing. I need a ton of work on my mouth, and I was embarrassed for anyone to look at it. I had my initial appointment yesterday and I was immediately at ease. There was no judgment for the condition of my mouth, and the staff was incredibly kind and caring. I'm very pleased with my decision to choose Riley Dental Associates!"

Ali D.

"My dentist retired just as I needed acute care for loose and painful tooth. Riley Dental Associates worked me in within a few days and treated me like I had been a patient for many years. Very friendly and professional staff. Would be hard to find a better dental practice."

Richard M.

"Riley Dental is amazing. I have been to a few other dental offices in the area and have always had issues with not being numb enough due to sensitive teeth. At Riley Dental I didn't feel a thing! Their staff is very nice and helpful and they will take the time to explain everything. Their process is quick and they have amazing attention to detail. Their office is nice and clean they have a nice waiting area. All my cleaning was covered by my insurance. I also felt like the number of pictures and x-rays they took was enough to show them everything they need. I would highly recommend going to Riley Dental!"

Kurt R.

READ OUR
DENTAL BLOG

Lynchburg, VA Dentist

3709 Old Forest Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501
(434) 385-7707