The link between the mouth's microbiome and cognitive function

A study recently published in PNAS Nexus sought to understand the link between the mouth's microbiome and cognitive function and found that certain kinds of bacteria can increase the likelihood of developing dementia.

According to the abstract, researchers found “that a greater prevalence of oral P. intermedia is linked to elevated genetic risk for dementia (APOE4 genotype) in individuals with MCI (mild cognitive impairment) prior to dementia diagnosis and that interventions that promote the oral Neisseria-Haemophilus and suppress Prevotella-dominated modules have potential for delaying cognitive decline.”

Higher amounts of Haemophilus and Haemophilus parainfluenzae coupled with Neisseria were linked to better executive function among study participants with MCI, the research states.

Although this research is still in the early stages, it may provide yet another reason to take good care of your teeth and gums.