01/04/2026
Most people think dementia prevention is all “brain games” and genetics…
But here’s a wild one that doesn’t get talked about enough:
Your gums may matter more than you think.
Research has linked periodontal (gum) disease and tooth loss with a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia over time. One likely reason? Chronic inflammation. When your gums stay irritated and inflamed for years, it’s not just a mouth issue — it can spill over into the rest of the body… including the brain.
3 simple takeaways:
If your gums bleed when you brush, don’t ignore it like it’s “normal.”
Daily flossing (or water flosser) is boring… and ridiculously protective.
Regular cleanings aren’t cosmetic — they’re inflammation control.
Not medical advice — just a reminder that sometimes the brain-health moves start in places you wouldn’t expect.