If not cleaned properly, dentures can be a breeding ground for pneumonia-causing germs.
- In people with pneumonia, 20 times more respiratory pathogens were present on dentures.
- Denture wearers therefore run an increased risk of inflammation of the lungs.
- The latter swallow saliva containing harmful microbes for the lower respiratory tract.
Although dentures allow many people to live a normal life after losing their teeth, researchers from Cardiff University (UK) warn of a link between wearing dentures and pneumonia, “a common cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly”. In a recent study published in the journal Journal of Medical Microbiologythey hypothesized that the surfaces of dentures provide a breeding ground for respiratory pathogens and therefore may increase the risk of pneumonia in susceptible individuals.
Pneumonia: 20 times more bacteria on patients’ dentures
For the purposes of the work, the scientists took samples of the mouth, tongue and dental prostheses from hospitalized people who suffered from pneumonia. Then, they compared these samples to those taken from adults wearing dentures but not suffering from pneumonia. “We expected to see a difference, but were surprised to find that the number of bacteria potentially causing pneumonia on dentures was 20 times higher in people with pneumonia than in those without. “, explained Dr. Josh Twigg, lead author of the research, in a statement.
Denture wearers swallow contaminated saliva
Given these results, the team speculates that dental prostheses could play a role in the onset of pneumonia. If not cleaned properly, it can form a new surface where bacteria can grow. Denture wearers can then swallow saliva containing microbes that are dangerous to their lungs, where an infection can then set in.
“You certainly can’t say that the people got pneumonia because they were wearing dentures. The study just shows there’s a link,” said Josh Twigg. By visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and learning about the best way to care for their teeth, the doctor hopes more patients will avoid having to wear dentures.
