Malady Wise

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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