With growing evidence of a link between gum disease and life threatening complications of COVID-19, there has never been a more important time for us to look after our oral health.
Please read our advice and guidelines from Marisa Connett, dental hygienist at SpaDental Chard. She explains why gum health is more important than ever, and what patients can do to support their periodontal health.
Dental Hygienist Marisa Connett graduated from Cardiff University with an award for her academic achievement. Research continues to inform Marisa’s treatment planning and thoughtful care. SpaDental Chard patients particularly appreciate her sensitive manner and understanding. In this article, Marisa looks into recent research supporting a connection between gum health and individual responses to COVID-19. She also offers advice for maintaining optimal oral heath.
The threat of gum disease
According to the European Federation of Periodontology, a recent study of 500 patients with COVID-19 found that those with gum disease were:
- 3.5 times more likely to be admitted to intensive care.
- 4.5 times more likely to need a ventilator.
- Almost 9 times more likely to die than those without gum disease.
Why is gum health so important?
The link between oral health and overall body health is well documented. Evidence suggests that those with periodontitis (gum disease) are:
- 25% more at risk of heart disease.
- 3 times more likely to develop diabetes.
- 20% more at risk of high blood pressure.
There is also evidence of a connection between oral bacteria, pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The health conditions listed above are all well known risk factors for more severe COVID-19.
Research links unhealthy gums to inflammation
The study of 500 COVID-19 patients noted blood markers indicating inflammation in the body were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients who had gum disease, compared to those who did not. Therefore inflammation may explain the raised complication rates.
Gum disease triggers inflammation in the body which prompts the release of the protein interleukin-6 (IL-6). Evidence shows that high levels of IL-6 can destroy the tissue and the linings of blood vessels in the lungs, reducing oxygen.
It was also noted that oral bacteria in patients with gum disease can be inhaled. Their oral bacteria can infect the lungs, particularly when using a ventilator.
According to Professor Lior Shapira from the European Federation of Periodontology:
“Oral care should be part of the health recommendations to reduce the risk from severe COVID-19 outcomes.”
Advice from Marisa for healthy gums
Having a good oral hygiene routine helps us take back some control of our health and well-being during these unsettling times.
It is therefore more important than ever to:
- Thoroughly brush teeth and gums for at least 2 minutes twice a day to remove plaque.
- Clean thoroughly between teeth with floss or interdental brushes.
- Consider the use of a water flosser.
- Keep up-to-date with regular dental examinations and hygienist appointments in order to monitor and manage gum health.
Additional note from SpaDental
- Registered patients can book private oral hygiene appointments directly, without needing to see a dentist first.
- Our dental payment plans help to spread the cost of regular oral hygiene and dental checks across the year.
- Please contact us if you’d like to learn more about becoming a SpaDental private patient.
Patients also ask:
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- What’s the difference between hand scaling and ultrasonic scaling?
- Why aren’t hygienists polishing teeth at the moment?