How Your Next Teeth Cleaning Might Protect You from Pneumonia
Regular dental checkups may help to protect against pneumonia, as they help reduce levels of harmful mouth bacteria.
Key takeaways:
- Previous research established a connection between pneumonia and oral health.
- Numerous microbes (bacteria, viruses) in the mouth are beneficial, but in certain conditions may lead to diseases.
- Pneumonia-causing bacteria are inhaled, and regular dental cleaning will help to eliminate these bacteria.
In her presentation, Dr. Doll acknowledged that people who see their dentist regularly are also likely to practice other healthy-mouth behaviors (like brushing and flossing regularly). They may also have healthier behaviors in general, which might affect their pneumonia risk, as well.
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