With the weather getting colder, people start to think about the ways they can avoid getting sick. One way to prevent pneumonia may be simpler than expect, just brush your teeth.
Research from the Yale University School of Medicine found that changes in oral bacteria preceded the development of pneumonia in hospital patients. After studying 37 patients over the span of a month, the researchers concluded that the changes in oral bacteria coincide with the person's risk for pneumonia development.
While respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, and oral health have been thought to be connected for years, the exact link as not been investigated. Studies have shown a higher pneumonia mortality rate for people with a more than average amount of gum problems.
Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and cutting down on sugary foods and drinks may just help reduce your risk of contracting pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
Source: http://www.colgate.com/app/CP/US/EN/OC/Information/Articles/ADA/2012/article/ADA-01-Better_oral_hygiene_could_lower_pneumonia_risk.cvsp
R. Eric Emery, DDS
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