The Mouth Brain Axis: How Oral Dysbiosis Influences Brain Health

Presented by: Preeti Kulkarni, MD

Original Publication Date: February 02, 2023

Course Description: 

Beginning in the 1950s, forward-thinking doctors started to recognize the association between oral and systemic health. The relationship is not new – but only recently have we begun to understand how inextricably linked the two really are.  The discovery of oral bacteria in arterial plaque (e.g., coronary, carotid) and cerebral plaque (amyloid) in the brain makes it clear that oral microbes do not stay confined to the mouth. 

What happens when the bacteria in the mouth are pathogens? They lead to inflammation in our mouth – whether bleeding gums or caries – and ultimately chronic inflammation in the body, including the brain. The problem is compounded when pathogenic biofilms (plaque) are present - a particular problem in oral dysbiosis. Please Join Dr. Preeti Kulkarni for a review of the latest research on the oral microbiome, biofilms, and their influence on neuroinflammatory conditions, as well as the use of botanicals to restore balance to the oral microbiome.

Learning Objectives:

• Gain an understanding of the significance of oral dysbiosis and biofilms.
• Comprehend the mechanisms of action associated with pathogens in both oral and brain health.
• Grasp the role of botanical antimicrobials and biofilm busters in maintaining a balanced oral microbiome.

Speaker Bio:

Preeti Kulkarni, MD, is a Naturopathic Doctor and a clinical consultant for Biocidin Botanicals. She also serves on the board of the Institute for Natural Medicine. An advocate for the importance of treating the whole person, she is a sought-after public speaker. Dr. Kulkarni has presented at the International Conference on Nutrition in Medicine, at several Silicon Valley tech companies, and on popular podcasts. She is in private practice at Core Integrative and Naturopathic Medical Center in the San Francisco Bay Area.