Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: The Overlooked Link Between Memory Loss and Oral Health

Did you know more than 6.2 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease? As we recognize Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and World Alzheimer’s Day, it is important to highlight how this condition affects more than memory. Alzheimer’s has a direct impact on both oral and overall health.

How Alzheimer’s Impacts Oral Health

• Memory Loss: Daily routines such as brushing and flossing are often forgotten.
• Oral Health Decline: The risk of cavities and gum disease increases without consistent care.
• Nutrition Challenges: Dental pain makes eating difficult, which can lead to poor nutrition.
• Infection Risk: Poor oral health raises the likelihood of infections, including pneumonia.
• Chronic Conditions: Oral disease can make diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues worse.

Our Commitment to Alzheimer’s Patient Care

At Enable Dental, we believe every patient deserves compassionate and accessible dental care, especially those living with memory loss. Our approach is designed with Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers in mind.

Trained, Patient-Centered Care
Our dental professionals understand the unique needs of Alzheimer’s patients. We focus on gentle care that reduces stress and dental anxiety.

On-Site Visits
With portable dental equipment, we provide care directly in memory care communities, assisted living facilities, and private residences, ensuring comfort and accessibility.

Education and Support
We work with caregivers to share practical guidance on daily oral hygiene routines that help prevent complications and maintain comfort.

Why It Matters

Research shows a strong connection between oral health and Alzheimer’s disease. Poor oral hygiene can accelerate overall health decline, increase the risk of infection, and make chronic conditions worse. By prioritizing dental care, we can help improve quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s.

Every patient deserves access to compassionate, preventive dental care. At Enable Dental – Portable Dentistry HQ, we deliver high-quality care where patients live. By removing barriers and focusing on patient comfort, we ensure Alzheimer’s patients receive the dental services they need for better health outcomes. Schedule a visit today to protect your loved one’s oral health and give them the comfort and quality of life they deserve.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Tooth Loss in Adults.” https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db197.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Periodontal Disease.” https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html

Journal of Public Health Dentistry. “Oral health disparities among adults with disabilities.” https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jphd.12644

CareQuest Institute for Oral Health. “The Relationship Between Oral Health and Heart Disease.” https://www.carequest.org/about/blog-post/relationship-between-oral-health-and-heart-disease