Oral Hygiene and COVID-19

In an article published in the British Dental Journal volume 228 no. 12, researchers have identified a possible connection between the oral microbiome and COVID-19 complications. The oral microbiome refers to the colonies of bacteria that reside in your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, palate, and tonsils and is comprised of over 600 different types of bacteria.

The researchers suggest that the oral microbiome and its link to COVID-19 symptom severity should be investigated further to establish the importance of oral hygiene and pre-existing oral disease in the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. The four main comorbidities associated with an increased risk of complications from COVID-19 are also associated with altered oral biofilms and periodontal disease. Bacteria that can be present in mouths with periodontal disease, are also implicated in systemic inflammation, bacteraemia, pneumonia, and even death.

In order to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth and the potential risk of a bacterial superinfection, the researchers go on to recommend that oral hygiene be maintained, if not improved during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also recommend that poor oral hygiene be considered a risk to post-viral complications. That risk can be increased in patients who are already predisposed to altered biofilms due to diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. Bacteria present in patients with severe COVID-19 are associated with the oral cavity and improved oral hygiene may play a part in reducing the risk.

As we learn more about the link between overall health and oral health, it’s becoming more and more clear that the two are inextricably linked together.

If you do not have your next hygiene appointment scheduled, contact your local Altima Clinic today.

For tips on how you can maintain your oral hygiene at home, read this related blog article on At-home Oral Healthcare Tips.

Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41415-020-1747-8.pdf

Dental DIY Don’ts

Some things should not be do it yourself (DIY), and dentistry is one of those things. With accessibility and affordability being the main appeal of at-home or direct-to-consumer dentistry, we understand why these alternatives seem like a good idea. However, not all smiles are created equal, and some things should be left to the professionals. We have compiled a list of the top dental DIY don’ts that can do more harm than good, in the short and long run, and will explain why visiting your local dentist may be a better, more affordable, option for you.

Filing Teeth with Nail Files

This DIY don’t is painful enough to read, but believe it or not, people do try to file their own teeth with at-home supplies. Dental professionals advise patients not to try this, ever! Why, you may ask? Well, the act of filing teeth is not as easy as it sounds and requires proper safety, tools, and technique. Patients risk damaging their enamel and tooth structure by filing off too much of their tooth. This can lead to misshaped teeth, tooth sensitivity and rapid tooth wear.

Whitening Teeth with Citrus Rinds

This may seem like an ingenious way to leave no part of your fruit unused, but this method can quickly lead to long term harm. It is often believed that citrus fruit can naturally whiten teeth and freshen breath, and while this may appear to be the case, this is not necessarily true. Citrus fruit is extremely acidic and when your teeth are exposed to acids the hard, outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel, breaks down. The “results” you may see after using citrus to whiten your teeth is actually a consequence of stripping your tooth enamel, which can cause decay and make future staining easier.

DIY Aligners

As direct-to-consumer orthodontics becomes more prevalent, dental professionals and consumers alike are realizing the truth about DIY aligners. With cost and convenience being the two main selling points, the number one reason for seeking out aligner treatment in the first place (to straighten teeth predictably and comfortably) is often overlooked. In-person consultations with real doctors and dental professionals are important, especially when seeking out serious dental work. Tooth and gum health, the severity of misaligned teeth and bites, are all factors that play into determining whether someone is a potential candidate for aligners or braces. Numerous orthodontists have even reported seeing people with gum disease or tooth decay using DIY aligners, which not only jeopardizes their oral and overall health, but confirms that at-home or online programs aren’t worth the ‘discount’.

At-Home Extractions

Affordability aside, performing an at-home tooth extraction without the proper training and equipment can be very dangerous, and can even cause more pain, damage, and financial stress in the long run. Although pulling a tooth may seem rather simple, the risk for infection, breaking teeth, severely damaging bone and tearing through mouth tissues is very high. Toothaches are bothersome, we get it, but if the pain does not subside on its own it usually means that there is a much deeper issue at play such as infection, decay, an abscess, etc. Remember, while it may be appropriate to gently remove a loose baby tooth, you should never pull an adult tooth.

Brushing Teeth with Baking Soda

Baking soda, a common fixture in every kitchen for baking, cooking and household cleaning, has also gained popularity as an alternative for brushing teeth. Although baking soda can be part an effective part of a toothpaste’s formula, homemade baking soda toothpaste lacks the fluoride necessary to prevent cavities and tooth decay. For patients with orthodontic appliances, baking soda can even soften the dental glues used to hold your braces or retainers in place. Toothpastes with baking soda in them are different because the baking soda granules have been finely ground to ensure that the paste is gentle enough for teeth, and with added fluoride in the toothpaste formula can fight cavities, which baking soda alone cannot do.

Remember, dentistry is not expensive, neglect is. Although some of the dental DIYs listed above may seem clever and cost-effective at first glance, the risks involved are not worth it in the long run. You only have one smile and you should treat it as such. For more information on the various dental services we offer, please click here.

Does A Healthy Mouth Mean A Healthy Heart?

Research has shown the connection between oral health and heart health. People who have poor oral health pose a higher risk of having cardiovascular problems. Studies have linked periodontal disease (gum disease) to numerous health conditions including heart attack and stroke. As the mouth is the primary gateway to bacteria and viruses, oral bacteria can cause harm to blood vessels or cause blood clots because of the toxins that it releases. These toxins resemble proteins found in the artery walls or the bloodstream. Bacteria from the mouth, especially bacteria from gum disease due to bleeding gums, can enter the bloodstream causing it to form fatty plaques around the artery walls, contributing to an environment for heart disease. 

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

Gum disease is the inflammation of the gums. People who have severe gum disease experience the breakdown of the gums, teeth, and bones that hold them in place. Sore, swollen gums are the main symptoms of gum disease. 

Two main types:

  • Gingivitis
  • Periodontitis

Both gingivitis and periodontitis raise concerns of heart disease as it allows bacteria and other toxins to spread below the gumline. 

How is gum disease connected to heart health?

Scientists have proposed theories regarding the connection between oral health and heart health:

  • Bacterial build-up and inflammation in the oral cavity can eventually lead to the narrowing and blockage of blood vessels
  • The body’s immune system response, inflammation, sets off a cascade of vascular damage throughout the body, including the heart and brain

A recent study has also linked teeth loss (due to poor oral health) to coronary heart disease. 

Proactive Prevention

Practicing good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of gum disease. Follow these steps to maintain a healthy mouth:

  • Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
  • Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner
  • Eat a balanced diet and limit between-meal snacks
  • Visit your dentist regularly for oral examinations and professional cleanings

Your dentist and hygienist are trained to identify periodontitis and gingivitis so it is important to visit them regularly. It is vital that you maintain good oral health in order to reduce the risk of gum disease and other health conditions. A healthy mouth and a healthy lifestyle can help you keep your beautiful smile. 

If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to give us a call or contact us to book an appointment.