COVID 19 and Gums
Because COVID-19 is still relatively new, we are leaning more and more about it every day. Some specific conditions and complications place patients at a higher risk when they are infected with the virus. In one study, there was an association between gum disease and severe COVID-19 outcomes. In order to understand how gum disease is associated with COVID-19, it is necessary to have a good understanding of gum disease and how it may contribute to specific complications and outcomes.
Gum disease negatively affects the gum tissue and bone which supports and secures the teeth in place. It differs from tooth decay because it creates tiny holes in the bones which support the tooth’s roots. Tooth decay, in comparison, creates small holes on the actual teeth. Close to 90% of all adults are impacted by gum disease. Gum disease is typically the result of neglect and poor oral hygiene.
When there is a bacterial infection detected in the gums, the body naturally responds with inflammation. The term cytokine storm is used to describe this process. In a cytokine storm, proteins are released which can contribute to this inflammatory response. During this response, other tissues throughout the body are also destroyed. These inflammatory products are then able to enter the blood stream through the infected gum pockets. In the most severe cases, these products can reach other organs in the body and may cause long-term damage to the tissue.
A study found that there was an increased risk for respiratory failure or a severe outcome for patients with gum disease who were hospitalized from coronavirus. The study also identified that patients with chronic periodontitis were also at a higher risk for severe COVID-19 complications. Because of the increased levels of inflammatory products, these patients were also an increased risk for lung damage. For patients with COVID-19, lung damage can progress into respiratory failure and require a ventilator. The data relatively new, however, there is no argument that a patient’s periodontal health is closely connected their overall health.
A growing amount of scientific evidence is suggesting that there is indeed an association between gum disease and various health complications. Diabetic patients, for example, were more susceptible to gum disease and infection when they were compared to non-diabetic patients. This association between gum disease and diabetes is considered bi-directional. This means that gum disease is more common in patients who have uncontrolled diabetes. Patients with gum disease experience inflammation which can make it even more difficult to effectively control their diabetes. Diabetes is also considered to be an underlying health condition and puts patients at an increased risk for severe illness or complications due to COVID-19.
While anyone can get gum disease, some patients are considered to be at an increased risk for complications. Patients who are above 65 years old, for example, are at increased risk for severe gum disease. Additionally, some minority groups are at a higher risk for having gum disease compared to the general public.
Practicing good oral hygiene is critical in the prevention of gum disease. Good oral hygiene is also important in managing gum disease for patients who already have it. Good oral hygiene consists of at least twice daily brushing and flossing each day. Patients should also make regular visits to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. Prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment are vital in the battle against gum disease.