Simple oral hygiene could help reduce COVID-19 severity: Study
Simple oral hygiene measures could help lower the risk of novel coronavirus transmission from the mouth to the lungs, and help prevent severe instances of COVID-19, according to a study published in the Journal of Oral Medicine and Dental Research. The research shows emerging evidence of specific ingredients of some inexpensive and widely available mouthwash that are highly effective at inactivating the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Coronavirus can pass into lungs directly from saliva: Research
The researchers noted that the coronavirus could pass into people's lungs from saliva with the virus moving directly from mouth to bloodstream, particularly if individuals are suffering from gum disease. Evidence shows that blood vessels of the lungs, rather than airways, are affected initially in COVID-19 lung disease with high concentrations of the virus in saliva and periodontitis associated with increased risk of death.
Dental plaque accumulation, periodontal inflammation intensify coronavirus likelihood
The researchers propose that dental plaque accumulation and periodontal inflammation further intensify the likelihood of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes coronavirus to reach the lungs and causing more severe infection. Experts say that this discovery could make effective oral healthcare a potentially lifesaving action.
Take simple, but effective, daily steps to maintain oral hygiene
Experts have also recommended that the public take simple, but effective, daily steps to maintain oral hygiene and reduce factors contributing to gum disease, such as the build-up of plaque. Initial observations of lung CT scans from patients suffering from COVID-19 lung disease led to a collaboration between medical and dental researchers on the potential entry route into the bloodstream.
Model could help manage the virus through cheap, effective treatments
"This model may help us understand why some individuals develop COVID-19 lung disease and others do not," said study co-author Iain Chapple, Professor at the University of Birmingham. "It could also change the way we manage the virus -- exploring cheap or even free treatments targeted at the mouth and, ultimately, saving lives," Chapple said.
Gum disease allows microorganisms to enter the blood
The researchers noted that gum disease makes the gums leakier, allowing microorganisms to enter the blood. "Simple measures -- such as careful toothbrushing and inter-dental brushing to reduce plaque build-up, along with specific mouthwashes, or even salt water rinsing to reduce gingival inflammation -- could help decrease the viral concentration in saliva," the researchers said.
Researchers hunting for solutions to curtail impact of existing COVID-19
"Simple measures can also help mitigate the development of lung disease and reduce the risk of deterioration to severe COVID-19," according to the researchers. Many researchers across the world are trying to find solutions that can curtail the impact of existing COVID-19.
Model based on mouth providing a breeding ground for virus
The new model is based on the mouth providing a breeding ground for the virus, with any breach in oral immune defenses making it easier for the virus to enter the bloodstream. Moving from blood vessels in the gums, the virus would pass through neck and chest veins, reaching the heart before being pumped into pulmonary arteries and small vessels in the lung base and periphery.
Studies required to investigate the new model: Chapple
"Studies are urgently required to further investigate this new model, but in the meantime, daily oral hygiene and plaque control will not only improve oral health and well-being but could also be lifesaving in the context of the pandemic," Chapple said.
