Dental Infections

Overview

• Dental caries + gingivitis + periodontitis

Prevalence

• 25% of 20 to 64yo

• 15% > 65 yo

Systemic risks

• Chronic poor oral health and tooth loss linked to moderate increases in coronary and cerebrovascular disease

  • Study 1200 men for 24 years showed 2 x risk of coronary heart disease comparing highest versus lowest amounts of radiographic tooth bone loss

  • ? systemic inflammation on endothelial function

Complications

• Deep space infections

• Osteomyelitis of the jaw

• Blood spread to prosthetic heart valves, joints, other devices

Prevention

• Fluoridation of public water

• Brushing 2 to 3 times daily with a fluoridated toothpaste (1000ppm)

• Dietary reduction of sugar-rich foods and beverages

• Oral antimicrobial rinses for high-risk patients

• Reduce risk factors such as smoking

• Regular dentist visits

Resources

Complications of odontogenic infection - Up To Date