SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 6, 2025 - Mounting Evidence Links Oral Health to Cognitive Decline
As Alzheimer’s disease continues to affect a growing number of older adults worldwide, scientists are uncovering a stronger connection between oral health and neurological conditions such as dementia. Recent findings spotlight the critical role of oral infections and chronic inflammation in accelerating the progression of Alzheimer’s, prompting healthcare professionals to reassess the importance of preventive dental care.
“Oral infections are a statistical risk for Alzheimer's, just as they are for conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This makes preventive oral care especially important,” says Professor emeritus Jukka Meurman from the University of Helsinki.
Oral Infections as a Risk Factor for Alzheimer’s
“These enzymes are neurotoxic, meaning they can damage brain cells,” explains Prof. Meurman, referring to gingipains—enzymes produced by oral bacteria that have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Chronic periodontitis and gum inflammation are not isolated issues; they trigger systemic inflammation that may travel via the bloodstream and intensify inflammation in the brain.
“This chronic, low-grade inflammation is linked to several diseases, including Alzheimer’s, as it may heighten neuroinflammatory responses in the brain, leading to neuron damage and cognitive decline,” the professor adds. This cycle of inflammation can worsen neurodegenerative symptoms by accelerating the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques—protein clumps that impair brain cell communication.
Cognitive Decline and Oral Hygiene: A Two-Way Relationship
As Alzheimer’s progresses, patients often struggle with self-care tasks, including oral hygiene, which worsens oral health and contributes to further systemic inflammation. According to Prof. Meurman, caregivers and healthcare professionals should view oral care not just as a dental task but as a critical part of dementia care.
“Medical professionals working with Alzheimer’s patients should take note of the importance of maintaining good oral health, as addressing gum disease and inflammation early may provide a crucial strategy for slowing cognitive decline.”
The Role of Lumoral in Preventive Oral Health Care
Amid these developments, Lumoral has emerged as a valuable solution in maintaining oral hygiene and managing chronic infections. Developed by Finnish scientists, Lumoral is a CE-marked, light-activated antibacterial device that significantly improves plaque removal and reduces gum inflammation.
“Good oral hygiene and close collaboration with a dentist are always beneficial. International estimates highlight how costly poor oral hygiene can be for society and individuals when dental diseases spread and require extensive treatment. Prevention is always the most cost-effective option,” Prof. Meurman states.
Lumoral’s Mechanism and Systemic Benefits
By using dual-light photodynamic therapy in combination with a Lumorinse mouthwash, Lumoral targets harmful bacteria that are difficult to eliminate through brushing and flossing alone. This advanced antibacterial therapy helps control inflammation at the source—preventing it from entering the bloodstream and potentially impacting brain and vascular health.
Key Benefits of Lumoral Treatment Include:
- Bacterial Reduction: Kills bacteria linked to periodontitis, which may be connected to dementia.
- Inflammation Control: Helps prevent systemic inflammation that can influence brain health.
- Improved Vascular Health: Reduces oral bacteria that can affect cardiovascular systems—known dementia risk factors.
- Enhanced Treatment Outcomes: As seen in Europe’s largest periodontitis study, over 50% of Lumoral users achieved gum health within three months.
The study, titled Home-Applied Dual-Light Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Stable Chronic Periodontitis (HOPE-CP), confirmed that Lumoral significantly improves outcomes when used alongside professional non-surgical periodontal treatment. These results are echoed by thousands of Lumoral users and dental professionals across Europe.
Public Health Implications and Preventive Policy
With Alzheimer's expected to affect nearly 14 million Americans by 2050 and related healthcare costs projected to surpass $1 trillion, early prevention strategies are essential. Poor oral health is also linked to metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death, underscoring the broader public health implications.
“Raising awareness of the link between oral and general health and developing programs that support better oral hygiene on a population level” is a necessary step, Prof. Meurman asserts.
Visit www.lumoral.com to learn more about Lumoral and how it supports oral and systemic health.
About Professor Jukka Meurman
Prof. Meurman is a renowned authority in oral infectious diseases. He is Professor Emeritus at the University of Helsinki and Head Physician at Helsinki University Hospital’s Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases. His accolades include the Geriatric Oral Research Award (IADR), the Echelon Argent from Ville de Paris, and multiple honorary doctorates.
About Lumoral
Lumoral is an advanced light-activated oral hygiene device developed in Finland. Designed to reduce harmful plaque bacteria and inflammation, Lumoral serves as an effective adjunct to brushing and flossing for individuals with gum disease or systemic health risks linked to oral infections.
Explore how Lumoral is transforming preventive care at www.lumoral.com.