COVID 19 and Gums
COVID-19 is still being studied and as we learn more, it is being associated with certain medical conditions and complications in COVID-19 patients. Recently, studies have found that gum disease may be associated with more severe cases of COVID-19 and other medical conditions. In order for everyone to understand how gum disease can affect COVID-19, we have to know what gum disease is and how it presents in the mouth.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease develops in three stages: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis. It causes inflammation in the gum tissue and can cause a lot of damage when left untreated. Patients can begin developing gum disease without even realizing it which is why regular check-ups with your Dentist are crucial to your oral and overall health. The primary cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene and neglecting regular dental appointments.
Advanced periodontitis can actually lead to the deterioration of gum tissue and bone structure. When your jaw bone begins to deteriorate, your teeth can become loose and even fall out.
How can gum disease affect patients diagnosed with COVID-19?
Severe gum disease can contribute to the release of proteins and may be associated with an inflammatory response that destroys tissues in other parts of the body. The inflammatory products can enter the bloodstream through infected gum pockets and reach other organs and cause tissue damage. Studies suggest that patients with underlying gum disease who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 may be at higher risk for respiratory failure.
Oral health is undeniably connected to overall systemic health and even though these studies are in their early stages, they indicate that symptoms of chronic gum disease may lead to more severe COVID-19 complications. The elevated levels of inflammatory products can circulate and have more potential to cause damage in the lungs, leading to COVID-19 patients requiring a ventilator.
How else can gum disease affect the body?
Research has associated gum disease to other systemic medical issues and health complications including:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Pulmonary disease
- Preterm delivery of low birth weight babies
- Certain cancers
- Alzheimer’s disease
Anyone can develop a gum disease but some may be at greater risk than others. Individuals over the age of 65 have a greater severity of gum disease and patients with diabetes are more susceptible to developing gum disease.
Patients with uncontrolled diabetes are not only more likely to develop gum disease but the inflammation related to gum disease makes it harder for the patient to control their diabetes. Diabetes has also been listed as an underlying health condition that might increase risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way for patients to prevent gum disease is by practicing good oral hygiene. It is important to brush your teeth twice daily with a soft bristle toothbrush and two floss at least once daily. Maintaining regular visits to the dentist for professional cleanings is also vital to oral health. Most patients are all right to see their dentist every six months but those with diagnosed periodontal disease or those who are at higher risk of developing periodontal disease should maintain a more frequent recall schedule.