Bacteria in the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs and cause harm in people with chronic lung disease. Keeping the mouth clean is a small step that helps.
- Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, especially in people with chronic lung disease or older adults.
- Brushing twice a day and cleaning between teeth and the tongue reduces bacteria in the mouth.
- Rinse after using an inhaler as the doctor advises.
- At a dental visit, tell the dentist about your lung disease and medicines.
The mouth and the airway are connected. If the mouth has a lot of plaque, gum inflammation or tartar, bacteria can travel with breath or saliva and be inhaled into the lungs. In people with chronic lung disease such as COPD, older adults and those with weak resistance, this can raise the risk of pneumonia. Good oral care is one way to help lower that risk.
Why is the mouth connected to the lungs?
- Plaque and gum inflammation are places where bacteria grow.
- People who are short of breath often breathe through the mouth, so it dries out and bacteria multiply easily.
- Some inhalers or long term medicines can cause a dry mouth, see dry mouth in people taking medicines.
- People who cough a lot or lie down for long periods may inhale saliva or fluid, see oral care for bed bound people.
Daily oral care
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between teeth with floss or a water flosser.
- Clean the tongue gently to reduce bacteria.
- Rinse your mouth with plain water after using an inhaler, as your doctor advises.
- Drink enough water if your doctor allows it so the mouth stays less dry.
- If you wear dentures, take them out and clean them daily and leave them to dry overnight.
What to know at a dental visit
Tell the dentist about your lung disease and medicines. If breathing is hard when lying flat, say so, so the dentist can seat you higher during treatment. People with asthma may read dental visits for people with asthma. Smokers may read how smoking affects oral health.
When should you visit Ky Hoa Dental Clinic?
Nha Khoa Ky Hoa is at 266A - 268, 3 Thang 2 Street, Hoa Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. You can walk in during opening hours, or call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter times first, and bring information about your lung disease and medicines.
Frequently asked questions
Why can poor oral health be linked to pneumonia?
Bacteria from plaque and inflamed gums can be inhaled into the lungs with saliva, especially in older adults, people with chronic lung disease or weak resistance.
What should people with COPD know about oral care?
Brush twice a day, clean between teeth and the tongue, rinse after using an inhaler as the doctor advises and have regular check ups.
Can someone who is short of breath see a dentist?
Yes. Tell the dentist about the lung disease and medicines, and say if lying flat makes breathing hard so you can be seated higher during treatment.