Oral bacterial biofilm contains an estimated 700 species including oral as well as respiratory pathogens. Medically important pathogens include Enterobacter, Hemophilus and various strains of pneumoniae bacteria. Respiratory pathogens in oral biofilm can be released into the saliva and aspirated into the lungs of hospitalized patients, especially those who have a breathing tube in place.

Clinical Implications: Oral hygiene for hospitalized, intubated patients should be considered not only for oral health, but also to prevent aspiration of bacteria into the lungs.

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is seen in 23 percent of the population, with half of these people suffering with a recurrence of RAS within three months. The Greek term “aphthai,” credited to Hippocrates, was first used to describe oral disorders. [Read more...]

Chewing gum is considered beneficial for oral hygiene, to help cope with air sickness and as an alternative to smoking. Researchers have suggested, anecdotally, that chewing gum enhance brain function.
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Smoking is a serious risk factor for periodontal disease and compromises clinical healing following therapy. Smoking suppresses the body’s immune response, triggers the release of cytokines which destroy healthy connective tissue and prevent these cells from organizing and healing. Despite a great deal of research confirming the role of smoking in the progression of periodontal disease, treatment and maintenance are the same for smokers and non-smokers. [Read more...]

For centuries, green tea has been consumed in Asia with the belief it yields significant health benefits. Animal studies show that theanine, a major amino acid in green tea, has a tranquilizing effect on the brain. Other studies show anti-inflammatory and stress-reduction effects associated with green tea.

Clinical Implications: Green tea consumption might have a potentially beneficial effect on the prevention of depressive symptoms.

Periodontal disease can lead to Weight control and effect physical fitness.

The health complications of being overweight, such as increased risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, have long been reported. Health care professionals often urge patients to manage their weight and strive to get physical exercise each day to achieve and maintain overall health. And now, researchers have uncovered another fact about maintaining a fit lifestyle: Healthy teeth and gums.
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Targeted swallowing exercise may help alleviate swallowing dysfunction resulting from chemo-radiation therapy (CRT), according to a study published in the April issue of Archives of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery. “This study provides clear evidence that aggressive swallowing therapy is an important way to improve outcomes after CRT”, said Dr. Genden.

Eric Genden, MD
Professor of Otolaryngology
Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York City

Oral probiotics in the form of mints or chewing gums introduce healthy bacteria to the oral cavity. The goal is to change the balance of the oral flora to one of health.
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Two over-the-counter oral probiotics are now available to control cariogenic bacteria: PerioBalance by Sunstar Butler and EvoraKids by Oragenics. PerioBalance uses Lactobacilli reuteri and EvoraKids uses ProBiora3, a blend of Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus uberis and Streptococcus rattus.
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Osteoporosis is a well-known disease that weakens bone and increases the risk of fracture, particularly among postmenopausal women. Biphosphonates, an inhibitor of bone resorption, are widely used as a drug therapy for those with osteoporosis. Prolonged use of biphosphonates, however, can lead to a painful refractory bone exposure in the jaws, known as ”biphosphonate-induced osteonecrosis of the jaw” (BONJ). This condition usually develops after dental treatment, indicating that oral surgery and implants placed into the jawbone can precipitate BONJ. [Read more...]