Following the American Dental Association’s (ADA) recommendation to brush teeth twice a day may offer more than just protection against cavities and decay—it could also enhance survival rates in critical hospital settings. A 2023 systematic review published in JAMA Internal Medicine indicates that proper oral hygiene may significantly decrease the risk of death for patients in intensive care units (ICUs).
The study analyzed data from 15 clinical trials involving over 2,700 patients. It revealed that brushing teeth twice daily is associated with a lower incidence of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), a severe infection that can prolong hospital stays, escalate medical costs, and increase mortality risk. Hospital records estimate that between five and 20 cases of HAP occur per 1,000 hospital admissions. For patients on mechanical ventilators, maintaining oral hygiene showed considerable benefits. Those who adhered to a brushing regimen were found to wean off ventilators more swiftly, spent less time in the ICU, and exhibited lower death rates.
With the human mouth harboring more than 700 bacterial strains, regular brushing helps maintain a healthy microbial balance. Neglecting oral hygiene allows harmful bacteria to proliferate, potentially leading to pneumonia when these germs are inhaled. Dr. Natalie Stinton, a pediatric dentist not involved in the review, highlighted that improved oral hygiene can cut hospital-acquired pneumonia cases by 40%. According to a 2022 study in the American Journal of Infection Control, HAP patients face an approximate 8% mortality rate. Rigorous toothbrushing might therefore offer a protective benefit against HAP-related deaths.
Moreover, the benefits of toothbrushing extend beyond preventing pneumonia. A 2008 study published in The Journals of Gerontology explored the correlation between tooth loss and mortality risk, finding that a reduced number of healthy teeth is linked to higher early death risk. The study concluded that good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, contribute to overall health and longevity.
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