Periodontal Disease and Alzheimer's Disease - A New Link

The molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for the etiology and pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease have not been defined; however, inflammation within the brain is thought to play a pivotal role. Studies suggest that peripheral infection/ inflammation might affect the inflammatory state of the central nervous system. Chronic periodontitis is a prevalent peripheral infection that is associated with gram-negative anaerobic bacteria and the elevation of serum inflammatory markers including Creactive protein. Recently, chronic periodontitis has been associated with several systemic diseases including Alzheimer's Disease. In this article we review the several potential mechanisms through which chronic periodontitis can possibly contribute to the clinical onset and progression of Alzheimer's Disease.