London, April 21 (ITP) Simple oral hygiene measures could help reduce the risk of transmitting the new coronavirus from the mouth to the lungs and help prevent severe cases of COVID-19, according to a study.
The research, published in the Journal of Oral Medicine and Dental Research, shows that there is evidence that the specific ingredients of cheap and widely available mouthwashes are extremely effective in inactivating the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19.
The researchers said that the coronavirus could pass into people’s lungs from saliva, with the virus passing directly from the mouth into the blood – especially if individuals suffer from gum disease.
Evidence shows that the blood vessels of the lungs, rather than the airways, are initially affected in COVID-19 lung disease with high concentrations of virus in saliva and periodontitis associated with an increased risk of death.
Researchers suggest that plaque buildup and periodontal inflammation further increase the likelihood that the SARS-CoV-2 virus will reach the lungs and cause more severe cases of infection.
Experts say the discovery could make effective oral care a life-saving action – recommending the public take simple but effective daily measures to maintain oral hygiene and reduce factors that contribute to gum disease, such as accumulation of plaque.
Initial observations of lung CT scans from patients with COVID-19 lung disease have led to collaboration between medical researchers and dentists on the potential route of entry into the bloodstream.
“This model can help us understand why some individuals develop COVID-19 lung disease and others do not,” said study co-author Iain Chapple, a professor at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom.
“It could also change the way we manage the virus – exploring cheap or even free treatments that target the mouth and ultimately save lives,” Chapple said.
The researchers noted that gum disease makes the gums shorter, allowing microorganisms to enter the bloodstream.
Simple measures – such as careful tooth brushing and interdental brushing to reduce plaque buildup, along with specific mouthwashes or even rinsing with salt water to reduce gingival inflammation – could help lower viral saliva levels.
This may also help slow the development of lung disease and reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 damage, according to the researchers.
The new model is based on the mouth that provides a breeding ground for the virus to thrive, any violation of oral immune defense facilitating the penetration of the virus into the blood.
Passing through the blood vessels in the gums, the virus would pass through the throat and thoracic veins – reaching the heart before being pumped into the pulmonary arteries and small vessels in the lung base and periphery, the researchers said.
“Emergency studies are needed to further investigate this new model, but in the meantime, daily oral hygiene and plaque control will not only improve oral health and well-being, but could also save lives in the context of the pandemic,” Chapple added. PTI HSR SAR SAR