In a recent study in the British Dental Journal*, a link between poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, and the severity of COVID-19 infections was presented. The study linked here shows that good oral hygiene has been recognized as a means to prevent airway infections in patients, especially in those over the age of 70.
We recommend that oral hygiene be maintained, if not improved, during a COVID-19 infection in order to reduce the bacterial load in the mouth and the potential risk of bacterial superinfection. 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 of complications.
Our mission at ProHEALTH Dental is educating, promoting, and providing proper oral health care as an integral step towards improved overall health and to help people of all ages live healthier and more productive lives. ProHEALTH Dental is the only dental organization in New York that has clinical affiliations with high-quality large medical groups and healthcare systems so we can coordinate care with treating physicians.