- COVID-19 patients are at least three times more likely to experience complications if they also have gum disease.
- A recent research published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology brings out this information.
- The study of more than 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, and almost nine times more likely to die compared to those without gum disease.
A recent news article published in the Medical Xpress reveals that gum disease is linked to covid-19 complications.
Inflammation in the body
Blood markers indicating inflammation in the body were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients who had gum disease compared to those who did not.
It suggests that inflammation may explain the raised complication rates.
“The results of the study suggest that the inflammation in the oral cavity may open the door to the coronavirus becoming more violent,” said Professor Lior Shapira, EFP president-elect.
“Oral care should be part of the health recommendations to reduce the risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.”
Periodontitis
Periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease, affects up to half of all adults worldwide.
Periodontitis causes inflammation of the gums and, if left untreated, inflammation can spread throughout the body.
Covid-19 is associated with an inflammatory response that may be fatal.
This study investigated the relationship between periodontitis and COVID-19 complications.
Study conducted in Qatar
A nationwide case-control study conducted in Qatar.
It has electronic health records containing medical and dental data.
The study included 568 patients diagnosed with Covid-19 between February and July 2020.
Of these, 40 had complications (intensive care unit [ICU] admission, ventilator requirement, or death) and 528 did not.
Information was collected on gum disease and other factors that might be associated with Covid-19 complications including body mass index (BMI), smoking, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Data were also obtained on blood levels of chemicals related to inflammation in the body.
Association between periodontitis and lung diseases
Professor Shapira said that the association between periodontitis and lung diseases including asthma, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is well established.
He said: “This study adds further evidence to the links between oral health and respiratory conditions. Periodontitis is a common disease but can be prevented and treated.”
What you can do to prevent gum disease
- Brush your teeth carefully more than once a day using a manual or powered toothbrush.
- Clean between your teeth daily using an interdental brush (or floss if the gaps are too tight).
- Specific mouth rinses or toothpastes can be used on top of cleaning to reduce inflammation.
- Do not smoke, maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, exercise, reduce stress.
- If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar.
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Source: Medical Xpress
