The link between oral health and the health of the rest of the body is not something to be ignored. Significant relationships have been uncovered between the health of the mouth and heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Respiratory problems can be influenced by the bacteria that are found in the mouth, also.

A three-month study undertaken in Germany looked into patients who were hospitalized with COVID-19. The study uncovered that those who had periodontal disease had a significantly elevated chance of fatal respiratory failure.

This respiratory condition is likely caused by interleukin (IL-6), a harmful protein that is produced by periodontitis. IL-6 makes its way from the gums into the lungs, causing severe respiratory ailments.

According to Shervin Molayem, DDS, founder of the UCLA Dental Research Journal, “Gum disease has been linked to other breathing ailments, including pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, so we weren’t surprised to find a link to respiratory problems with COVID-19.”

Molayem followed this with, “what shocked us was the discovery of the protein’s devastating, life-threatening impact on patients once they’re hospitalized. One tiny, inflammatory protein robbed them of their ability to breathe.”

You can read more about this study in The Mouth-COVID Connection from the California Dental Association.

Having healthy gums is more vital than ever. Contact Twin Dental if you spot any of the symptoms of periodontal disease, and make sure you have your six-month checkup scheduled.