Course Description:

This presentation equips dental professionals with the latest insights into the dynamic relationship between oral health and brain health, known as the oral-cognitive link. It explores how the oral microbiome influences brain function both directly—through microbial translocation and neuroinflammation—and indirectly—via gut microbiota modulation and nitric oxide pathways. Recent studies have identified specific oral bacteria associated with improved memory and attention, while others are linked to cognitive decline and increased dementia risk. The course also highlights best practices in oral hygiene and dietary strategies to support both oral and neurological health.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Recognize the oral-cognitive link and its implications for aging and neurological health.
2. Understand the role of the oral microbiome in brain function, including:

• How beneficial bacteria like Neisseria and Haemophilus are linked to better cognitive performance.
• How harmful bacteria such as Porphyromonas and Prevotella may contribute to memory decline and Alzheimer’s risk
• The oral-gut-brain axis and its role in neuroinflammation

3. Apply this knowledge in clinical practice by:

• Integrating oral microbiome awareness into patient assessments.
• Promoting nitrate-rich diets (e.g., leafy greens, beetroot juice) to support beneficial oral bacteria
• Encouraging consistent oral hygiene to reduce neuroinflammatory risks

Dr. Susanne M. Kolare Jeffrey, DDS, PhD
Clinical Associate Professor of Restorative Dentistry
University of Washington School of Dentistry

Dr. Susanne Kolare Jeffrey is a Clinical Associate Professor of Restorative Dentistry at the University of Washington School of Dentistry in Seattle, Washington. She serves as the Course Director for Geriatric Dentistry and is the Director of the School’s Geriatric Dentistry Clinic, where she leads efforts to advance oral health care for older adults through education, research, and clinical service.

In addition to her academic leadership, Dr. Kolare Jeffrey provides comprehensive patient care through the School’s Faculty Practice. She was recognized as a TopDoc dental clinician in Washington State for 2024, a testament to her dedication to patient-centered care. In 2025, she was honored with the School’s teaching award by the graduating class and was selected as their hooder at the commencement ceremony.

Dr. Kolare Jeffrey earned both her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and her PhD in Immunobiology from the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden. She completed postdoctoral research training in Geriatric Medicine and Geriatric Dentistry at the Karolinska Institutet, and further specialized in Salivary Gland Biology during her postdoctoral work at the University of Washington. Her academic and clinical work reflects a deep commitment to advancing geriatric oral health and mentoring the next generation of dental professionals