Beverly Hills, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/06/2010 -- Medical findings strongly suggest gum disease affects intelligence, with a low tooth count predicting poor performance on cognitive tests. The link between periodontal disease and overall health has been long established – oral inflammation introduces inflammation into the blood, increasing risk for other health issues. The shocking connection between tooth loss and cognitive decline has only recently been demonstrated so clearly.

A breakthrough study published in May in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society draws attention to the importance of oral hygiene. Researchers at Boston University’s School of Dental Medicine examined dental records of 600 men for up to 32 years and found that the risk of poor performance on cognitive exams increases between 8% and 10% with each tooth lost per decade. Even those with cavities performed worse than those with none. Participants with no tooth loss consistently performed better. The researchers believe that inflammation may be a possible cause, noting that other studies found higher levels of inflammation markers in people with Alzheimer’s disease. “Periodontal disease and cavities are infectious diseases that introduce inflammatory proteins into the blood. There’s a lot of evidence that inflammation raises your risk of cognitive decline and it could be that gum inflammation is one of the sources”, say the researchers.

Another recent study by the University of Kentucky searched for a connection between tooth loss and Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Using a Delayed Word Recall test, which assesses memory, researchers established that participants who did not lose teeth over the span of three years averaged significantly higher recall than those who experienced tooth loss during those years. This study, published in the Journal of Dental Research, adds to the evidence that there is a significant relationship between oral hygiene and cognitive capabilities. “The connection between having a low number of teeth and poor memory highlights the need to take preventative action against gum disease and tooth decay,” says Dr. Farnoosh. “Regular oral exams are imperative not only for oral health, but for overall health and well being.

Dr. Farnoosh, founder of The Total Smile, has specialized in gum disease for over 25 years and recommends a preventative strategy via regular checkups. From lip lowering to treat gummy smile and aesthetic gum bleaching to treat discolored gums, implants, grafting and treating gum recession, Dr. Farnoosh has a solution for your oral health concerns. To schedule an appointment, please visit http://www.TheTotalSmile.com

About THE TOTAL SMILE:
The Total Smile was founded by Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist Dr. Alex Farnoosh. Serving patients from around the globe at his Beverly Hills office for over 25 years, Dr. Farnoosh has proven expertise in the field of dentistry and offers many unique cosmetic and functional services. Dr. Farnoosh specializes in dental implants, laser periodontal surgery, gum and bone grafting and his novel lip-lowering treatment for a gummy smile and gum bleaching to treat discolored pigmented gums. Dr. Farnoosh has been recognized by the Consumers’ Research Council of America (CRC) as one of America’s top dentists in their annual report since 2008. To learn more about Dr. Farnoosh and how to achieve The Total Smile, visit: http://www.thetotalsmile.com