Recent data suggests there may be a potential link between gum disease and COVID-19 complications. Having dental cleanings may help protect you from severe symptoms and improve overall health.
Bleeding gums, tartar buildup, and oral disease increase the Interleukin-6 (IL-6) inflammatory response that is linked with COVID-19.
Scientists are urging “hospitals and doctors to set up dental protocols to check the gums” of all affected patients.
Patients who have high levels of IL-6 are far more likely to be hospitalized and suffer severe respiratory problems. IL-6 gets released in the mouth as a result of bacterial plaque and inflammation. It travels to the lining of the lungs and other organs. Evidence shows that the increased levels of IL-6 are found in more than 50% of patients with COVID-19. These
mediators of inflammatory and immune response may be attributed to the “cytokine storm” in COVID patients that results in elevated mortality risk. Scientists show that patients with respiratory infections like pneumonia have improved outcomes following teeth cleanings, showing fewer symptoms of disease.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7278637/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7129451/
Another reason to get your annual check-up and teeth cleaning!
