Dental Infections
Overview
Dental caries + gingivitis + periodontitis
Prevalence
25% of 20 to 64yo
15% > 65 yo
Systemic risks
Chronic poor oral health and tooth loss linked to moderate increases in coronary and cerebrovascular disease
Study 1200 men for 24 years showed 2 x risk of coronary heart disease comparing highest versus lowest amounts of radiographic tooth bone loss
? systemic inflammation on endothelial function
Complications
Deep space infections
Osteomyelitis of the jaw
Blood spread to prosthetic heart valves, joints, other devices
Prevention
Fluoridation of public water
Brushing 2 to 3 times daily with a fluoridated toothpaste (1000ppm)
Dietary reduction of sugar-rich foods and beverages
Oral antimicrobial rinses for high-risk patients
Reduce risk factors such as smoking
Regular dentist visits
Resources
Complications of odontogenic infection - Up To Date