They say that your mouth is the gateway to the body. Not only is it possible for periodontal disease bacteria to spread from your gums directly into your bloodstream, but you can also swallow or even inhale them. As a result, people with periodontal infections may be at twice the risk of developing some form of respiratory disease. (1)
Throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers also found that people with active periodontal infections were more likely to require a ventilator while hospitalized. The co-existing infection was also associated to higher mortality rates.
But respiratory infections brought about by COVID-19 aren’t the only ones to worry about. More common infections like pneumonia may be even more concerning, especially for elderly individuals, those with COPD, or reactive airway disease. Alarmingly, periodontal infections may even bring about ventilator-associated pneumonia in individuals who require intubation during medical care. (2)
If you or a loved one are at risk for pneumonia or COPD, work with your family medical provider to ensure all measures are taken, including routine pneumonia vaccination.
Additionally, take steps to address known periodontal infections. If you’re behind on dental checkups, consider an exam and cleaning part of your annual well care process, the same as you would a routine visit with your medical provider. They can work with you to adapt your home hygiene techniques to fit your dexterity level and needs, immediately lowering the number of bacteria that are present in your mouth.
And finally, if your dentist diagnoses active periodontal disease, get it treated right away. Without professional care, it’s not a matter of if those bacteria will spread elsewhere in your body, but when.
1. Moghadam, S., et al; The associations between periodontitis and respiratory disease. J Nepal Health Res Council (2017). Jan-Apr;15(35):1-6.
2. De Marco, et al. (2013). Oral condition of critical patients and its correlation with ventilator-associated pneumonia: a pilot study. Revista de Odontologia da UNESP, 42(3), 182-187. https://doi.org/10.1590/S1807-25772013000300007