THE ESSENTIAL
- Improperly cleaned dentures can provide a breeding ground for pathogens.
- These microbes, contained in saliva, are then swallowed and thus increase the risk of pneumonia.
- It is important to take care of your teeth to avoid having to wear dentures.
Dentures make life easier for many people who have lost their teeth. However, researchers from Cardiff University (United Kingdom) warn wearers because there is a link between dentures and pneumonia, “a common cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly”. According to a June 2023 study, published in the journal Journal of Medical Microbiologyscientists hypothesized that denture surfaces represent a breeding ground for respiratory pathogens and thus could increase the risk of pneumonia in susceptible individuals.
20 times more bacteria on dentures of patients with pneumonia
For the purposes of the study, scientists collected samples of the oral cavity, tongue and dentures from hospitalized pneumonia patients. They then compared these samples to those taken from people wearing dentures but not suffering from pneumonia. “We expected to see a difference, but were surprised to find that the number of potentially pneumonia-causing bacteria on dentures was 20 times higher in people with pneumonia than in those without it. “, Dr. Josh Twigg, lead author of the research, said in a statement.
Saliva is contaminated with microbes harmful to the lungs
Given these results, the team hypothesized that dentures could contribute to the onset of pneumonia. If they are not cleaned effectively, their surface can allow bacteria to develop. Denture wearers then swallow saliva contaminated with microbes harmful to their lungs, leading to infection.
-“We certainly can’t say that people got pneumonia because they wore dentures. The study just shows that there is a connection,” Josh Twigg said.
To conclude, the doctor hopes that more patients will visit the dentist regularly for check-ups and learn about the best way to take care of their teeth, thus avoiding having to wear dentures.
Health