The Fatal Facts of Periodontitis (Gum) Disease and COVID-19
January 29, 2021
Did you remember to floss today? It could help save your life.
In this month’s blog topic, we take a closer look at the risks faced by undetected/untreated periodontal disease and how it can be fatal for anyone who contracts COVID-19.
Studies linking the potentially fatal outcome of COVID-19 and poor oral hygiene should be raising more eyebrows. Bacteria growth from your oral cavity can be aspirated into the lung, resulting in respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, especially for people with periodontal (gum) disease.
People with respiratory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are at an increased risk of lung infections due to the bacteria found in periodontal infections. Considering that Coronaviruses often affect the respiratory systems, being diagnosed with COVID-19 on top of existing periodontitis (gum) disease can be deadly.
Why you ask?
Let’s break it down.
Interleukin (IL-6) is a harmful protein produced by periodontitis. Studies suggest that COVID-19 patients with poor oral hygiene face a much greater risk of generating toxic IL-6 proteins. When IL-6 spread to your lungs, it can trigger a life-threatening respiratory crisis, leaving you unable to breathe. Statistically, elderly patients are more likely to suffer from periodontal (gum) disease than any other age group, and this demographic already face some of the highest risks from contracting COVID-19. The odds of recovery for COVID-19 patients who experience respiratory failure are grim, at best.
Practicing good oral hygiene needs to be at the top of your list to help keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Make it a priority to have your teeth and gums checked/cleaned by your dentist twice a year to screen for gingivitis and periodontal (gum) disease. Brushing your teeth may not stop COVID-19, but it can help reduce its severity. At Health First Dental, you can count on our expertise and care to help keep you informed and healthy. Book with us today and give yourself peace of mind knowing you are putting your health first too.
Resources:
Health First Dental – Periodontal Disease
Dentistry Today – COVID-19 Patients With Periodontitis Face Greater Risk of Dying
News Medical – Oral Hygiene and Severity of COVID-19