Author(s): Patrick Avalose*
Caries and periodontitis become a permanent worry due to the retention of teeth into old age. Acidic oral streptococci metabolites destroy enamel and dentin, causing dental caries. Dissolution leads to cavitation, which develops into bacterial invasion of the dental pulp if left untreated and allows oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Infections of the endocardium, meninges, mediastinum, vertebrae, hepatobiliary system, and artificial joints have all been associated to oral pathogens. Dental plaque causes periodontitis, a pathogen-specific, lytic inflammatory response that weakens the tooth attachment. In persons with diabetes, periodontal disease is more severe and less easily managed; poor glycemic management may make the host response worse. The most common cause of pneumonia in nursing homes is aspiration of oropharyngeal infections; variables suggesting poor oral health closely correlate with higher risk of acquiring aspiration pneumonia. Periodontopathic organisms that are blood borne may contribute to atherosclerosis. The morbidity of oral infections and their non-oral aftereffects can be reduced in an economical manner by practising daily oral hygiene and receiving routine dental care.
