Corona patients are 3 times more likely to develop complications if they suffer from gum disease

New research in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, the official publication of the European Union of Periodontology (EFP), shows that Corona patients are at least three times more likely to have complications if they suffer from gum disease.

The study of more than 500 patients with coronavirus found that people with gum disease were 3.5 times more likely to enter intensive care, 4.5 times more likely to need a ventilator, and nearly nine times more likely to die. Compared to those without gum disease.

Blood signs of inflammation in the body were significantly higher in Corona patients with periodontal disease compared to those who did not, indicating that inflammation may explain the higher complication rates.

The results of the study indicate that inflammation in the oral cavity may open the door for the Coronavirus to become more violent and cause complications, and oral care should be part of health recommendations to reduce the risk of serious consequences for COVID-19.

Periodontitis, a dangerous form of gum disease, affects up to half of adults worldwide, and causes gingivitis, and if left untreated, the inflammation can spread throughout the body, and the Corona virus is associated with an inflammatory response that may be fatal.

The authors stated: "If a causal relationship is established between periodontitis and an increase in rates of negative outcomes in Corona patients, monitoring gum health may become an important part of caring for these patients."

One of the study's authors indicated that oral bacteria in periodontitis patients can be inhaled and infect the lungs, especially those who use a ventilator, adding: This may contribute to a deterioration in the condition of patients with Corona virus and increase the risk of death, so the hospital staff Identifying COVID-19 patients with gingivitis and using oral antiseptics to reduce bacterial transmission. "

What can you do to prevent gum disease

Brush your teeth carefully more than once a day with a manual or electric toothbrush.

Brush between your teeth daily with an interdental brush (or floss if the gaps are very narrow).

Mouthwashes or toothpastes can be used on top of the scrub to reduce inflammation.

Don't smoke, maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, exercise, and reduce stress.

If you have diabetes, you need to control your blood sugar.