Media Opportunity: America’s Declining Dental Health and its Repercussions During the COVID-19 Pandemic

With the COVID-19 pandemic’s one-year anniversary fast approaching, government organizations are now increasing health efforts to prevent citizen complacency regarding face masks and social distancing guidelines. While nearly 100 million vaccines have been given out to Americans since the beginning of December, the introduction of new mutations of the COVID-19 virus in the US is concerning for oubliette health officials. Recent reports have found that an increasing number of Americans are no longer complying with COVID-19 precautions and that these numbers are likely to increase the longer the pandemic continues. In addition to these issues, a recent study has found a correlation between poor oral hygiene and more severe cases of COVID-19. With the discovery of this new information, American citizens must now be encouraged to not only wear a face mask and adhere to social distancing orders but commit to improving their oral health.

Within the past year, many dental practices have closed or reduced their hours to limit exposure for their staff and patients. Today, many dentistries now only offer emergency and urgent dental services, making visits for annual cleanings and dental maintenance far more infrequent. This has caused a decline in American oral health and an increase in cavities and gum-related diseases. However, poor dental hygiene among America’s younger generations has been an ongoing public health issue. Multiple surveys have found that only 3 out of 10 Millennials brush their teeth once a day, with many going multiple days without brushing. Dr. Kaya Allen, a Seattle-based dentist with more than fifteen years of experience, has expressed concern regarding the decline of American oral health and stresses the importance of educating the public on the dangers of poor oral hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Within recent months, scientists have discovered a link between poor oral hygiene to severe cases of COVID-19. Those with poor oral health have a higher risk of developing a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection,” explained Kaya Allen, DDS.

While tooth decay remains a pressing concern, the high bacterial load that is caused by tooth decay can have serious repercussions for American’s during COVID-19. Several studies have found that poor dental hygiene increases the risk of aspirating oral microbiomes into the lungs, which can lead to infection. Within the study, scientists found the most common causes of harmful bacteria in the mouth were periodontitis, otherwise known as gum disease.

“Periodontal patients are encouraged to take immediate action to improve their dental health. Those with periodontitis have a 25% increase in the risk of experiencing a heart attack, are three times as likely to develop diabetes, and are 20% more likely to develop high blood pressure, all of which are risk factors that contribute to severe COVID-19,” reported Dr. Allen.

To reduce the risk of contracting a more severe form of COVID-19, Dr. Allen recommends:

• A commitment to brushing teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and using a fluoride mouthwash once a day.

• Visiting a dentist at least once per year to ensure optimal gum and teeth health.

• Staying on top of plaque buildup, gum health, and preventing new cavities.

Kaya Allen, DDS, is available to discuss the US’s declining dental health and the connection between poor oral hygiene and cases of severe COVID-19. To set up an interview or provide questions for Dr. Kaya Allen, contact Fiona Walker at fionajudithwalker@gmail.com or call (612) 219-2120