As found in our recent survey, feelings of concern about potentially catching Covid-19 at the dentist lead many patients to cancel their dental appointments, but maintaining good dental hygiene is extremely important for your health. The risk of death from the new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is of high concern.
People with inflamed, swollen or bleeding gums are up to 70% more likely to contract COVID-19
A recent UK study found that people with inflamed, swollen or bleeding gums are up to 70% more likely to contract COVID-19 and die. The research found that not only pre-existing conditions like heart disease or diabetes mean an increased risk, but also bad oral hygiene. Contracting an infection is
far more likely when you have poor oral health.
As the coronavirus infection affects the mouth and throat, good oral hygiene is a first and important step to preventing SARS-CoV-2. Inflammations in the gums can weaken the immune system. The study shows that patients with gingivitis and a positive corona test compared to the high risk group, were
70% more likely to face a risk of death. In addition to wearing a mask and keeping your distance, oral hygiene is an effective measure against an infection.
It is important to routinely brush your teeth – cavities can play a crucial role in the spread of SARS-CoV-2! Coronavirus is transmitted via the mouth in saliva and aerosols when breathing, speaking or coughing. In another study, it shows that there is a link between the viral load in the oral cavity and the corona disease. The higher the number of germs in the patient’s mouth, the more difficult it is to overcome the illness, and comes with a high risk of transmission to other people.
Dental hygiene strengthens the immune competence
In the British Dental Journal, Prof. Martin Addy (University of Bristol) affirmed that it is now more than ever important to brush your teeth at least twice a day – especially those who are in the high risk groups. And a statement from the President of the German specialist society DGZMK Prof. Dr. Roland Frankenberger (University Marburg) on the importance of brushing your teeth concurs. Prevention strengthens the immune competence at the point of origin of the viral infection, and helps to avoid the infection or to soften its impact.
“A patient with periodontal disease has subgingival gingivitis. This means that he – often unnoticed – has an open wound of around 40 square centimeters in the oral cavity.” says Frankenberger.
Unlikely to become infected with Covid-19 at the dentist
It is very unlikely that you will become infected with COVID-19 at the dentist. Oral hygiene is not just about brushing your teeth at home. Even the regular prophylaxis appointments and professional teeth cleaning at the dentist are an integral part. Therefore, it’s important to maintain your dentist appointments during the corona pandemic.
Consequential damage to teeth and gums caused by missing necessary treatments can be avoided through regular appointments. Your dental practice offers maximum protection against the coronavirus with their high hygiene standards inspected by the health authorities on a regular basis. In fact, there are hardly any other industries in which the surfaces are so regularly disinfected and hand sanitiser is used, with gloves, visors and mouth-nose protection as part of daily standard equipment. In the course of the corona pandemic, hygiene standards tightened significantly. According to current information, receiving treatment at the dentist either with a treatment team or socially distancing from other patients does not contribute towards an increased Covid-19 infection.
Speak to your dentist about Covid-19 and oral health
So, do not put off your visit to the dentist any longer. Make sure you speak to your trusted dentist for further information about the link between Covid-19 and oral health.
