New research suggests people who avoid needing emergency dentistry by keeping their teeth and gums healthy could be achieving other positive health outcomes.
American Academy of Periodontology president and practising dentist Donald S Clem carried out a study that demonstrated links between good periodontal health and improved lung health.
The report was published in the Journal of Periodontology and found that the participants in the project who had been hospitalised with lung problems tended to have worse teeth and gums than people who had not suffered such illnesses.
Researchers suggested bacteria that cause periodontal disorders may be inhaled into the respiratory system and cause problems for patients.
Among the illnesses people may be avoiding by maintaining healthy teeth and gums – and not requiring emergency dentistry – are pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Separate research carried out by Bristol University professor of oral microbiology Howard Jenkinson has also linked dental issues with heart attacks and strokes.
