Research has shown that lingering plaque is capable of triggering or worsening the progression of pneumonia, because bacteria can swiftly relocate from the teeth into the respiratory tract. From here, they can move down into the lungs.
“In particular, patients who are already susceptible are more at risk of acute infection,” says Patel. “So immunocompromised patients with severe asthma; patients who are waiting for lung transplants. We have to be really careful about getting on top of any existing gum disease.”
Diabetes
This may seem like an odd link at first. How can poor mouth hygiene be connected to a disease that is driven by a malfunctioning pancreas? However, studies have found a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and gum disease.
Poor blood sugar control can stimulate an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, while chronic infections from untreated periodontal problems can induce surges of inflammation in the bloodstream, causing rising blood sugar levels and making the condition harder to manage.
“If the bacteria in your mouth hang around for any length of time, they start producing this stuff called endotoxins,” says Woodhouse. “The body reacts to them and floods the area with inflammatory products, and all those nasty chemicals and toxins floating in your bloodstream go on to mess up lots and lots of bodily systems. Diabetes and periodontal disease: it’s a bit of a chicken and egg scenario. They both exacerbate each other.”
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
