Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative, progressive brain disorder in which the cells of the brain deteriorate, leading to dementia or memory loss. It disrupts the social, behavioural skills of the affected person.

The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease usually begin with the forgetfulness of recent events. As the disease advances, there is severe memory impairment and an inability to carry out day-to-day tasks.

The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease remains unknown to date, but it is believed that some abnormal proteins in the brain damage the neurons, causing their death. Memory loss occurs due to neuronal cell death. Also, there are several lifestyle and environmental factors that increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Factors, such as ageing, a positive history of Alzheimer's disease, especially in first-degree relatives, Down's syndrome, mild cognitive impairment, a history of head injury, poor sleep patterns, smoking, blood pressure and alcohol abuse, increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Complications from Alzheimer's include pneumonia, fractures, aspiration, an increased tendency to fall and dehydration. Most often, persons are unable to express the symptoms of dental pain, report another illness or follow a treatment plan, which can complicate prognosis for other health ailments.