Neglecting oral hygiene can lead not only to tooth loss but also to serious systemic illnesses. The head of the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry at Sechenov University, Professor Irina Makeeva, in an interview with RT, detailed the mechanisms by which oral infections compromise the entire body.
According to the specialist, neglecting regular brushing results in the onset of cavities and periodontitis, triggering shifts in the oral microbial balance. In a healthy individual, the junction between the tooth and the gum is fortified by the junctional epithelium—a natural barrier. When periodontitis develops, this defense mechanism fails, allowing bacteria to enter the periodontal pocket and subsequently, via blood vessel walls, enter the bloodstream. Once circulating, these pathogens damage the endothelium and encourage platelet aggregation, laying the groundwork for strokes and heart attacks. This danger is amplified significantly for those with elevated blood sugar or cholesterol levels.
Should the epithelial barrier remain intact, professional cleanings and improved personal hygiene can mitigate these dangers. However, in cases of advanced periodontitis, specialized intervention from a periodontist becomes essential.
Makeeva stressed that oral infections exert detrimental effects across multiple bodily systems. The most immediate impact is often seen in the ENT organs (resulting in sinusitis), followed by visual impairment linked to upper jaw issues. Furthermore, evidence suggests links between untreated periodontitis and increased cancer risk. These inflammatory processes are particularly perilous for individuals with diabetes—whose sugar levels frequently improve markedly following dental treatment—and for expectant mothers.
When bacteria enter the circulation, they undermine the body’s immune defenses. A healthy system will mount resistance, but this capacity diminishes significantly when adverse habits, chronic ailments, or immunosuppressive medications are present.
The professor strongly criticized standardized approaches to oral care. The traditional guideline of brushing “twice for three minutes” is outdated; an individualized regimen is necessary when frequent snacking, the presence of crowns, dry mouth, or crowded teeth are factors. The use of floss and interdental brushes for cleaning spaces between teeth is mandatory, and mouthwashes should favor those containing natural ingredients, such as lactoferrin, over harsh antiseptics.
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