The COVID-19 pandemic has increased public awareness of the danger of viruses and the importance of a healthy immune system. At Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry, we want Alexandria dental patients to be aware of the link between gum health and infections.
Our Immune System Protects Against Serious Illness
The variation in the seriousness of COVID-19 illness is due, in part, to the strength of natural biological defenses.
Of course, you may be wondering why we’re discussing this in a dental blog. Does it have anything to do with a healthy smile?
Actually, it does. Scientists have found a link between oral bacteria and viral infections.
Gum Disease is Caused by Bacteria
The oral bacteria in question is Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis for short). The “gingivalis” in its name gives you a clue as to what type of bacteria it is. As you may have imagined, P. gingivalis is the bacteria that causes gingivitis and the more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.
Your Mouth Produces Natural Viral Protection
Interferon lambdas are a family of proteins produced by cells in the mouth. These proteins safeguard us from all kinds of bacterial and viral infections in addition to the coronavirus. The danger of P. gingivalis is that it makes Interferon lambdas less effective at protecting us.
This is how one of the researchers explained it:
“Our studies identified certain pathogenic bacterial species, P. gingivalis, which cause periodontal disease, can completely suppress interferon production and severely enhance susceptibility to viral infection. These resident oral plaque bacteria play a key role in regulating antiviral responses.” Juhi Bagaitkar, assistant professor, University of Louisville Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Disease.
Oral Health and Physical Health Go Hand in Hand
As if you needed one more reason to prevent gum disease! Not only does gum disease put you tooth loss, it makes you more susceptible to the potential problems of viruses. To recap: if you avoid gum disease, you protect your mouth from P. gingivalis. This lets you benefit from Interferon lambdas and the virus protection they provide.
Let’s explore basic oral hygiene behaviors that can prevent periodontitis and keep your smile healthy:
- Brush at least twice daily using the correct brushing techniques
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily using the correct flossing procedure
- Get a professional dental cleaning twice a year
- Schedule twice-yearly dental exams
- Take care of dental issues in their early stages so they don’t progress
Has it been a while since you’ve had a dental exam and cleaning? Call today to schedule a visit. We are located in Alexandria and serve the Mt. Vernon area. Our friendly team of dental professionals is here for you and your family.
Contact Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry:
703-360-5881
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8101 Hinson Farm Rd Ste 114
Alexandria, Virginia
22306
