Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay. However, some individuals may prefer natural alternatives to traditional fluoride treatments and toothpaste. Here you can find five natural options that contribute to strong, healthy teeth in toothpaste. 

Prioritize your oral health naturally. Explore our fluoride-free options to maintain a healthy, radiant smile. Call us today at 772.247.2407. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference: [https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/selecting-dental-products/six-natural-ingredients-in-fluoride-free-toothpaste#]

Dental emergencies can strike anytime, including during the busy holiday season. It’s essential to be able to recognize the signs of a dental emergency to seek prompt treatment and prevent further complications. Read on and learn to take immediate action and minimize the impact of these dental crises.

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any dental problem that requires immediate attention. Not all dental problems are emergencies. But if you have bleeding that won’t stop, pain that doesn’t get better with medication or broken facial bones, you need dental emergency care.

What to do in a dental emergency

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing you should do is call your dentist for further instruction. Many dentists have an emergency number you can call if it’s after regular business hours. If you don’t have a dentist, go to an urgent care center or your nearest emergency room.

Where to go for a dental emergency

For most dental emergencies, like a broken or knocked-out tooth, your dentist will treat you in their office. For more serious injuries, such as broken facial bones, you should go directly to the emergency room.

What is considered a dental emergency?

Examples of dental emergencies include:

• Severe toothache.
• Badly cracked tooth.
• Knocked-out tooth.
• Extruded (partially dislodged) tooth.
• Dental abscess (swelling of your face and jaw).
• Lost or broken dental restoration.
• Severe soft tissue injury (like a busted lip or deep cut).

Here’s how you can manage each of these dental emergencies until you see your dentist:

Severe toothache

First, thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm water. Use dental floss to remove any lodged food. If your mouth is swollen, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek. Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, naproxen or ibuprofen. (Never put aspirin or any other painkillers against your gums or tooth because it may burn your gum tissue.) See your dentist as soon as possible.

Badly cracked tooth

Save and rinse any broken pieces of your tooth. Rinse your mouth with warm water. If there’s bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth, cheek or lip near your broken/chipped tooth to relieve pain and keep any swelling down. See your dentist as soon as possible.

Knocked-out tooth

Retrieve the tooth, hold it by the crown (the part that’s usually visible above your gums) and rinse off the tooth root with water. Don’t scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, try to put your tooth back in its socket. Make sure it’s facing the right way. Never force it into place. If it’s not possible to reinsert your tooth in its socket, put your tooth in a small container of milk (or a cup of water that contains a pinch of table salt, if milk isn’t available) or a product containing cell growth medium, such as Save-a-Tooth®. In all cases, see your dentist as quickly as possible. Your dentist has the best chance of saving a knocked-out tooth when it’s returned to its socket within one hour.

Extruded (partially dislodged) tooth

See your dentist right away. Until you reach your dentist’s office, to relieve pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek in the affected area. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, naproxen or ibuprofen if needed.

Dental abscess

Abscesses are swollen areas or pimple-like infections that occur around the root of a tooth or in the space between your teeth and gums. An abscess is a serious condition that can damage tissue and surrounding teeth. Left untreated, the infection could cause swelling of your face or jaw, or possibly spread to other parts of your body. If you have a dental abscess, you should see your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, to ease the pain and draw the pus toward the surface, try rinsing your mouth with a mild salt-water solution (1/2 teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day.

Lost or broken dental restoration

Sometimes, old dental restorations can fall out or become dislodged. If you have a broken or missing filling, stick a piece of sugarless gum into the cavity (sugar-filled gum will cause pain) or use an over-the-counter dental cement. See your dentist as soon as possible.

If you have a broken dental crown or bridge, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible and bring the restoration with you. If possible, put your restoration back in place. Before doing so, coat the inner surface with an over-the-counter dental cement, toothpaste or denture adhesive to help hold the restoration in place. Don’t use a “super glue”!

Severe soft tissue injury

Injuries to the soft tissues, which include your tongue, cheeks, gums and lips, can result in bleeding. To control the bleeding, here’s what to do:

1. Rinse your mouth with a mild salt-water solution.
2. Use a moistened piece of gauze or caffeinated tea bag to apply pressure to the bleeding site. Hold in place for 15 to 20 minutes. (Tea contains tannic acid, which helps shrink blood vessels and slow bleeding.)
3. To control bleeding and relieve pain, hold a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek in the affected area for five to 10 minutes.
4. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, see your dentist right away or go to a hospital emergency room. Continue to apply pressure on the bleeding site with the gauze until your dentist can see you.

I’m not sure if what I’m experiencing is a dental emergency. What should I do?

There are also situations that aren’t dental emergencies. In other words, you should still see your dentist as soon as possible, but it’s OK to wait for an appointment during regular business hours. Examples of issues that aren’t dental emergencies include:

• Dull or mild toothache.
• Small chip or crack in a tooth.
• Broken braces.
• Object stuck between your teeth.
• Minor soft tissue injury (like a small cut or sore).

Remember, though, if you have severe bleeding or pain, you should see a dental or healthcare provider right away.

How can I manage my symptoms until I see my dentist?

• Dull toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water. Floss your teeth to see if there’s anything lodged between them. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, naproxen or ibuprofen. Never place aspirin directly on your gums. It will burn your tissue. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment.
• Small chip or crack in your tooth: If you have a chip or crack in your tooth that’s not causing any pain, it’s OK to wait until your dentist can see you. But if there are any sharp edges that irritate your tongue or cheeks, cover the area with orthodontic wax. (You can purchase orthodontic wax in the oral health aisle at most pharmacies.)
• Broken braces: Unless you have bleeding from your mouth, broken braces usually aren’t a dental emergency. If you have a broken wire that’s poking you in the cheek or tongue, gently bend the end of the wire using a pencil eraser or other blunt object. Then cover the wire with orthodontic wax until you can see your dentist or orthodontist.
• Object stuck between your teeth: If you have something lodged between your teeth, try to gently remove it using dental floss or an interproximal brush. Never try to remove an object with sharp instruments.
• Minor soft tissue injury: Thoroughly rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution or antibacterial mouthwash. Apply pressure to the affected area using a piece of clean cotton gauze. The bleeding should stop within 15 to 20 minutes. If you still have severe bleeding after that, you should seek immediate care.

When should I go to the ER for tooth pain?

If your dentist’s office isn’t open when tooth pain develops, you should go to your nearest emergency room. The ER staff can help ease your symptoms until you can see your dentist.

What can an emergency room do for a toothache?

Emergency room providers can give you medications, such as antibiotics or pain relievers, to alleviate pain and swelling. But they don’t perform restorative treatments, such as fillings or crowns. Once you receive dental emergency care at the ER, you’ll still need to see your dentist as soon as they’re back in their office.

Conclusion 

A dental emergency is any injury to your mouth that causes uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain or broken facial bones. Left untreated, a dental emergency can lead to even further issues, including the spread of infection, tooth mobility and even tooth loss. Prompt, timely treatment is key. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing you should do is call your dentist. Then, follow the instructions outlined here until you can make it to their office.

Don’t let a dental emergency ruin your holiday plans. Our emergency dental services are available to provide prompt and effective care. Call us today at 772.247.2407. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference: [https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11368–dental-emergencies-what-to-do]

Tongue-tie, a condition where the lingual frenulum is too short or tight, can affect a child’s speech, feeding, and overall development. As a parent, understanding the signs and symptoms of tongue-tie is crucial for early identification and intervention. You’ll find valuable information about tongue-tie, including its causes, effects, and treatment options in the article below. For more about our approach at Balanced Dental – Click HERE. 

Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition present at birth that restricts the tongue’s range of motion.

With tongue-tie, an unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) tethers the bottom of the tongue’s tip to the floor of the mouth. Depending on how much the tissue restricts tongue movement, it may interfere with breastfeeding. Someone who has tongue-tie might have difficulty sticking out the tongue. Tongue-tie can also affect eating or speaking.

Sometimes tongue-tie may not cause problems. Some cases may require a simple surgical procedure for correction.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of tongue-tie include:

• Difficulty lifting the tongue to the upper teeth or moving the tongue from side to side.
• Trouble sticking out the tongue past the lower front teeth.
• A tongue that appears notched or heart shaped when stuck out.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if:

• Your baby has signs of tongue-tie that cause problems, such as having trouble breastfeeding.
• A speech-language pathologist thinks your child’s speech is affected by tongue-tie.
• Your older child complains of tongue problems that interfere with eating, speaking or reaching the back teeth.
• You’re bothered by your own symptoms of tongue-tie.

Causes

Typically, the lingual frenulum separates before birth, allowing the tongue free range of motion. With tongue-tie, the lingual frenulum remains attached to the bottom of the tongue. Why this happens is largely unknown, although some cases of tongue-tie have been associated with certain genetic factors.

Risk factors

Although tongue-tie can affect anyone, it’s more common in boys than girls. Tongue-tie sometimes runs in families.

Complications

Tongue-tie may affect a baby’s oral development, as well as the way the child eats, speaks and swallows.

For example, tongue-tie can sometimes lead to:

• Breastfeeding problems. Breastfeeding requires a baby to keep the tongue over the lower gum while sucking. If unable to move the tongue or keep it in the right position, the baby might chew instead of suck on the nipple. This can cause significant nipple pain and interfere with a baby’s ability to get breast milk. Ultimately, poor breastfeeding can lead to inadequate nutrition and failure to thrive.
• Speech difficulties. Tongue-tie can interfere with the ability to make certain sounds — such as “t,” “d,” “z,” “s,” “th,” “n” and “l.”
• Poor oral hygiene. For an older child or adult, tongue-tie can make it difficult to sweep food debris from the teeth. This can contribute to tooth decay and inflammation of the gums (gingivitis).
• Challenges with other oral activities. Tongue-tie can interfere with activities such as licking an ice cream cone, licking the lips, kissing or playing a wind instrument.

Consult our expert dentist for a comprehensive evaluation of your child’s tongue-tie. Get personalized advice and treatment recommendations. Schedule your appointment at 772.247.2407. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference: [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tongue-tie/symptoms-causes/syc-20378452]

Laser teeth whitening has become a popular cosmetic procedure for those seeking a brighter smile. This advanced technique offers a quick and effective way to lighten teeth discoloration caused by various factors, including stains from coffee, tea, wine, and smoking. However, it’s essential to understand the procedure’s benefits and whether it’s a suitable option for your specific needs. We have some different ways of doing things here, at Balanced Dental, and we have the equipment and expertise to perform this procedure correctly and safely. Our teeth whitening solutions can also be performed during each visit to help keep your teeth whitened all year round.

Achieve a brighter, more confident smile with laser teeth whitening. Our advanced technology can effectively lighten stains and discoloration, leaving you with a dazzling smile.  Do you know we’re open at 8 AM so you can even be seen before work? Schedule your appointment at 772.247.2407 or email us at [email protected]. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference:[https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/teeth-whitening/is-laser-teeth-whitening-an-option-for-you]

Your oral health is a vital component of your overall well-being. From the connection between gum disease and heart health to the link between oral bacteria and respiratory issues, the mouth serves as a window into your overall health. At Balanced Dental, we believe in a holistic approach to dental care, addressing not just your teeth but the interconnected systems of your body. 

You know you’re supposed to brush and floss every day, but you might be surprised to learn that it’s not just about preventing cavities and keeping your smile pearly white. It’s also because keeping your mouth healthy is an important part of your overall health and well-being.

Oral health is linked to whole-body health, which means that problems with your teeth and gums can lead to other health concerns like heart disease, stroke and more. Periodontist Sasha Ross, DMD, MS, explains the connection between oral health and the rest of your body, including how you can best practice good dental hygiene.

Why oral health matters

You might think of your mouth as separate from the rest of your body, whether because your dentist is different from your doctor, or because your dental insurance isn’t bundled with the rest of your health insurance.

“In reality, though, you should think of your mouth as an extension of the rest of your body,” Dr. Ross says. “By looking in a person’s mouth, I often get a sense of what their overall health is.”

Having poor oral health can include conditions like:

• Gingivitis, when bacteria infect your gums. It’s a mild, early form of gum disease.
• Periodontal disease is a gum infection that leads to inflamed gums and bone loss around teeth.
• Tooth decay, like from untreated cavities.

What can happen if you have poor oral health?

Beyond yellowing smiles and bad breath, poor oral health can also contribute to a number of health issues that affect your whole body. Dr. Ross explains some of the most critical among them.

Cardiovascular disease

The umbrella term “cardiovascular disease” refers to a group of disorders related to your heart and your blood vessels. Having poor oral health is associated with forms of cardiovascular disease like:

• Coronary artery disease: As the most common type of heart disease, coronary artery disease can lead to heart attack, heart failure and more. It’s the leading cause of death in the United States.
• Clogged arteries: Studies show that people with periodontal disease have significantly higher rates of atherosclerosis, when plaque builds up inside the blood vessels that deliver blood and oxygen from your heart to your body.
• Stroke: Studies show a strong association between periodontal disease and strokes, specifically strokes related to atherosclerosis.

A caveat, though: “Keep in mind that even though cardiovascular disease and periodontal disease are associated with each other, there’s so far no evidence that one causes the other,” Dr. Ross says.

Endocarditis

If you have heart disease or other heart-related health issues, you’re at a higher risk of developing endocarditis, an inflammation of the lining of your heart valves (and sometimes the lining of your heart chambers).

“Endocarditis is caused by a bacterial infection that you can contract during procedures like tooth extractions,” Dr. Ross explains. “It doesn’t typically affect healthy hearts, but if you have existing heart issues, it can be fatal.”

Pregnancy and birth complications

When you’re pregnant, there’s extra reason to take care of your body — including your mouth. In people who are pregnant, poor oral health is associated with:

• Fetal growth restriction.
• Gestational diabetes.
• Low birth weight.
• Miscarriage.
• Stillbirth.
• Preeclampsia.

“Again, the thought is that oral bacteria can travel into the bloodstream and cause harm to the fetus,” Dr. Ross warns.

Pneumonia

Having cavities has been linked to developing pneumonia, a lung infection caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi.

“The thinking is that bacteria from the mouth can aspirate into the upper airway and into the lungs, which may be related to causing pneumonia,” Dr. Ross explains. “It also makes it easier for the bacteria that cause respiratory infections to stick in the lungs.”

Other issues

Of course, having a healthy mouth is key to your ability to consume healthy meals. “The act of eating, which is essential for our survival, really depends on having teeth in your mouth and healthy teeth and gums,” Dr. Ross says.

Untreated cavities can lead to poor nutrition and stunted growth and development in children. They can also cause issues like:

• Cellulitis (a bacterial infection)
• Facial swelling.
• Gum disease.

What affects your oral health?

There are a few factors that contribute to the relationship between oral health and systemic health. Dr. Ross explains some of the links.

Common risk factors

Periodontal disease and systemic disorders share a number of common risk factors, including:

• A poor diet, especially one high in sugar.
• Tobacco use.
• Excessive alcohol use.
• High stress.

All of these things can cause periodontal disease or cavities, and they can also cause systemic health disorders — so it makes sense that if you have one or more of these risk factors, you might have other related health concerns.

Genetics

Blame it on Mom and Dad: “Certain people are just more predisposed to developing periodontal disease and systemic diseases,” Dr. Ross explains.

Your body’s response to bacteria

This one isn’t genetic, per se, but it is related to your unique and inherent bodily responses.

“Everyone’s body responds to bacteria differently,” Dr. Ross says. “For instance, our bodies mount a huge response to bacteria that can, in some people, cause inflammation and other damage.”

Levels of inflammatory molecules like C-reactive protein are often elevated in people who have both periodontal disease and systemic disease.

Certain medical conditions

Just like poor oral health can contribute to other medical conditions, the reverse is true, too: There are some diseases and disorders that can cause oral health problems.

One of the big ones is diabetes. “People with poorly controlled diabetes have a much greater risk of developing periodontal disease and of having that periodontal disease progress and be more severe in nature,” Dr. Ross says.

Osteoporosis is also associated with periodontal disease, as studies suggest that the low bone mineral density associated with the condition can affect your jaw. The type of bone loss associated with periodontal disease is called alveolar bone loss, which refers to the part of your jawbone that has tooth sockets.

Other conditions that can affect your oral health include:

• Alzheimer’s disease.
• Fibromyalgia.
• HIV/AIDS.
• Prostate cancer.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.

“There are many studies coming out right now that show connections between these conditions and periodontal disease,” Dr. Ross says. “We expect more data soon that continues to show a linkage between them.”

How to practice good oral hygiene

If you’re starting to feel a little panicky that you haven’t flossed your teeth yet today (or this week), take a deep breath. There’s plenty you can start doing right now to improve your oral hygiene habits and keep your mouth both happy and healthy.

Here’s what Dr. Ross recommends.

• Brush your teeth twice a day. Use a fluoridated toothpaste and make sure you’re brushing for two whole minutes. Dr. Ross recommends using an electric toothbrush.
• Floss once a day. To hit those tough-to-clean crevices, use actual dental floss rather than those little floss picks. And if you’re not sure you’re flossing right, ask your dentist or dental hygienist to walk you through it.
• Try other home tools for oral hygiene. Options like mouthwash and Waterpik® can help you keep your teeth and gums in tip-top shape.
• See your dentist twice a year. Regular exams, X-rays and cleanings will keep your smile looking great and keep you healthy. “Seeing your dentist more regularly has been shown to decrease your risk for developing a stroke and other conditions,” Dr. Ross says.
• Make an appointment with a periodontist. If you’ve never visited one, now’s the time to start! Dr. Ross recommends making an annual appointment with a periodontist, who can make sure your gums and jaw are healthy (and help you keep them that way).
• Manage your other health concerns. Focusing on heart health and managing conditions like diabetes and osteoporosis are critical to keeping your mouth healthy (not to mention the rest of you).
• Maintain a healthy overall lifestyle. What’s good for your body is good for your mouth, too. To keep yourself on a healthy path, try to exercise regularly, eat nutritious foods and avoid activities like smoking and drinking to excess.

“Treating your oral health can impact your overall health, so it’s really important to take care of your teeth and your mouth,” Dr. Ross reiterates.

What if you’re afraid of going to the dentist?

Look, the truth is that dentists, periodontists and orthodontists know that you may be scared of visiting them. And they’re skilled in working with nervous patients to try to make the whole experience much less anxiety-inducing.

“There are a ton of ways that we can help you to not be fearful,” Dr. Ross says, “and there is so much benefit to having regular dental care that we really hope you won’t let your nerves keep you away.”

Ready to experience dentistry that goes beyond the surface? Our holistic approach nurtures your oral health while considering your whole well-being. Experience the difference a whole-body perspective can make in your dental care. Schedule your appointment at 772.247.2407. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference: [https://health.clevelandclinic.org/oral-health-body-connection]

When it comes to dental care, patients often look for methods that are not only effective but also gentle and minimally invasive. At Balanced Dental, we take a unique approach to dental procedures, focusing on an integrative and holistic approach that benefits not only oral health but also overall health. One of our standout procedures is Ozone Therapy. Harnessing the power of ozone, this treatment offers a range of benefits for oral health, from combating infections to promoting rapid healing.

Antibacterial Powerhouse

Ozone is a naturally occurring gas of three oxygen atoms (O3). In dentistry, it acts as a potent antibacterial agent, effectively killing bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even parasites. This makes it invaluable in treating infections, whether they are in the gums, teeth, or surrounding tissues. By targeting harmful microorganisms, Ozone Therapy helps disinfect the area without harsh chemicals or antibiotics, which can have unwanted side effects.

Non-Invasive Treatment

 Ozone Therapy provides a gentle alternative for those wary of invasive dental procedures (we get it!). The application of ozone gas is non-invasive and painless. This means that patients can undergo treatment comfortably and without the stress or discomfort associated with more traditional methods. Additionally, its non-invasive nature allows patients to resume their daily activities promptly.

Enhanced Healing

One of the remarkable benefits of Ozone Therapy is its ability to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Ozone promotes blood circulation to the treated area, aiding tissue regeneration and repair. This especially benefits patients recovering from surgeries, extractions, or periodontal treatments. By accelerating the healing process, Ozone Therapy reduces the risk of complications and ensures a smoother recovery for patients.

Tooth Preservation

Preserving your natural teeth is a top priority for our team, and Ozone Therapy plays a crucial role in this aspect. When used in conjunction with traditional treatments such as fillings or root canals, ozone gas can disinfect and strengthen the tooth structure. This helps to halt the progression of decay and prevent the need for more extensive procedures in the future. Ultimately, Ozone Therapy supports the goal of maintaining a healthy, natural smile for as long as possible.

Safe and Eco-Friendly

When odors, bacteria, or viruses meet ozone, oxidization occurs, and both parties are destroyed, and ozone gas naturally reverts to oxygen. This means that after its use, it leaves no harmful residues or byproducts behind. This makes ozone therapy safe for patients and environmentally sustainable, an important consideration today.

Earth’s natural cleansing is now available at Balanced Dental! Encourage your body’s antioxidant system while eliminating pathogens and increasing circulation in your gums. Our team strives to bring holistic care to your dental regime! Visit our socials or call us at 772.247.2407 to see all we offer so you can smile confidently!

Feeling a sharp twinge or noticing a chipped tooth? Don’t let a dental mishap turn into a major worry! Get the proper dental care to restore your smile and prevent further complications. Check more information about broken teeth by reading below and remember that Dr. Jackson is always here to get all of your questions answered.  

Don’t wait until the pain worsens: get emergency dental care now! Early intervention can minimize discomfort, prevent further damage, and even save your tooth. Schedule your appointment at 772.247.2407. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference: [https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-emergencies-and-sports-safety/fractured-and-broken-teeth]

Ever wonder if there’s a more natural way to approach dental care? Look no further than ozone dentistry! Discover how ozone dentistry can complement your current dental routine and explore a more holistic approach to a healthy smile. You can come in and meet Dr. Jackson and learn more about how Ozone works to activate the immune system, improve circulation, and eliminate pathogens. This gentle treatment encourages antioxidant use and oxygen metabolism in the body, thus killing bad bacteria and restoring your teeth and gums. Read on!

Your mouth harbors a bustling ecosystem of bacteria, some beneficial and some not-so-friendly. This delicate balance can be disrupted by factors like diet, stress, and medication, leading to problems like bad breath, gum disease, and even overall health issues. Learn about the potential of oral probiotics and transform your oral health. If you have any questions on anything related to your best oral health, come and see us! Dr. Jackson and his team are here to ensure your every question is answered and your every concern is addressed. 

Imagine a healthier, happier smile with the power of oral probiotics! At Balanced Dental, we prioritize your safety and well-being — we’re dedicated to your whole-body health. Schedule your next dental checkup today at 772.247.2407. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference: [https://www.healthline.com/health/oral-probiotics]

Brushing your teeth twice daily is a well-established habit for maintaining good oral health. But did you know that this simple routine might also benefit your lungs? Strange but true! Recent research suggests a surprising connection between oral hygiene practices and reduced risk of hospital-acquired pneumonia.

One more reason to brush your teeth

Maybe we should add toothbrushes to the bouquet of flowers we bring to friends and family members in the hospital — and make sure to pack one if we wind up there ourselves.

New Harvard-led research published online in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests seriously ill hospitalized patients are far less likely to develop hospital-acquired pneumonia if their teeth are brushed twice daily. They also need ventilators for less time, are able to leave the intensive care unit (ICU) more quickly, and are less likely to die in the ICU than patients without a similar toothbrushing regimen.

Why would toothbrushing make any difference?

“It makes sense that toothbrushing removes the bacteria that can lead to so many bad outcomes,” says Dr. Tien Jiang, an instructor in oral health policy and epidemiology at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, who wasn’t involved in the new research. “Plaque on teeth is so sticky that rinsing alone can’t effectively dislodge the bacteria. Only toothbrushing can.”

Pneumonia consistently falls among the leading infections patients develop while hospitalized. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, each year more than 633,000 Americans who go to the hospital for other health issues wind up getting pneumonia. Air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs fill with fluid or pus, causing coughing, fever, chills, and trouble breathing. Nearly 8% of those who develop hospital-acquired pneumonia die from it.

How was the study done?

The researchers reviewed 15 randomized trials encompassing nearly 2,800 patients. All of the studies compared outcomes among seriously ill hospitalized patients who had daily toothbrushing to those who did not.

• 14 of the studies were conducted in ICUs
• 13 involved patients who needed to be on a ventilator
• 11 used an antiseptic rinse called chlorhexidine gluconate for all patients: those who underwent toothbrushing and those who didn’t.

What were the findings?

The findings were compelling and should spur efforts to standardize twice-daily toothbrushing for all hospitalized patients, Dr. Jiang says.

Study participants who were randomly assigned to receive twice-daily toothbrushing were 33% less likely to develop hospital-acquired pneumonia. Those effects were magnified for people on ventilators, who needed this invasive breathing assistance for less time if their teeth were brushed.

Overall, study participants were 19% less likely to die in the ICU — and able to graduate from intensive care faster — with the twice-daily oral regimen.

How long patients stayed in the hospital or whether they were treated with antibiotics while there didn’t seem to influence pneumonia rates. Also, toothbrushing three or more times daily didn’t translate into additional benefits over brushing twice a day.

What were the study’s strengths and limitations?

One major strength was compiling years of smaller studies into one larger analysis — something particularly unusual in dentistry, Dr. Jiang says. “From a dental point of view, having 15 randomized controlled trials is huge. It’s very hard to amass that big of a population in dentistry at this high a level of evidence,” she says.

But toothbrushing techniques may have varied among hospitals participating in the research. And while the study was randomized, it couldn’t be blinded — a tactic that would reduce the chance of skewed results. Because there was no way to conceal toothbrushing regimens, clinicians involved in the study likely knew their efforts were being tracked, which may have changed their behavior.

“Perhaps they were more vigilant because of it,” Dr. Jiang says.

How exactly can toothbrushing prevent hospital-acquired pneumonia?

It’s not complicated. Pneumonia in hospitalized patients often stems from breathing germs into the mouth — germs which number more than 700 different species, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microbes.

This prospect looms larger for ventilated patients, since the breathing tube inserted into the throat can carry bacteria farther down the airway. “Ventilated patients lose the normal way of removing some of this bacteria,” Dr. Jiang says. “Without that ventilator, we can sweep it out of our upper airways.”

How much does toothbrushing matter if you’re not hospitalized?

In case you think the study findings only pertain to people in the hospital, think again. Rather, this drives home how vital it is for everyone to take care of their teeth and gums.

About 300 diseases and conditions are linked in some way to oral health. Poor oral health triggers some health problems and worsens others. People with gum disease and tooth loss, for example, have higher rates of heart attacks. And those with uncontrolled gum disease typically have more difficulty controlling blood sugar levels.

Invest in your overall health! Speak to your dentist about personalized oral hygiene recommendations. Schedule your next dental checkup today at 772.247.2407. Follow our Instagram for more dental tips.

Reference: [ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/one-more-reason-to-brush-your-teeth-202402263019 ]