Even as COVID-19 infection rates may finally be tapering off, the risk of catching COVID-19 is still alive and well. It’s still as important as ever to be vigilant against infection and aware of potential risk factors. 

Over the last two years COVID-19 has hit the global population hard. Like many diseases, the novel coronavirus has been known to more severely impact those with underlying health conditions. While a case of COVID-19 can be severe for anyone, it has been documented that certain groups may be more at risk for developing serious disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, older adults, individuals with a history of lung problems such as asthma and cystic fibrosis, individuals with diabetes, heart problems, and overall weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for developing serious symptoms.

But did you know it may be possible that poor oral hygiene could be another indicator or how severe a COVID-19 infection can be? 

In this blog we’re going to look at an interesting possible connection between elevated ACE2 cells and severe COVID-19 infection.

The Connection Between Oral Health and COVID-19 Severity

A 2021 study published in Oral Radiology sought to explore the connection between COVID-19 disease severity and oral health. It found that there was indeed a significant connection between these two factors. A similar 2020 study claimed that maintaining good oral hygiene was a good way to help prevent severe COVID. 

A possible reason for this may be because of the increased presence of ACE2 receptors found in individuals with poor dental hygiene. 

Angiotensin converting enzyme 2, also known as ACE2, is the receptor through which the novel coronavirus enters the bloodstream. ACE2 is important in allowing the body to maintain control over essential things like blood pressure, blood volume, nervous response, and kidney function. Individuals with diabetes and heart issues (aka. those who are predisposed to severe COVID) often have an excess of ACE2 enzymes. Interestingly, individuals with poor oral hygiene also tend to have higher than average ACE2 enzymes. This may equate to an increased risk for severe disease. 

While the exact reason for this connection between elevated ACE2 cells and severe COVID-19 isn’t completed understood, one theory is that when COVID-19 virus enters the body of an individual with elevated ACE activity, the virus automatically has an abundance of sites to clone itself at, leading to a possible increased severity of illness.

The Importance of Maintaining Good Oral Health

It’s no secret that good oral hygiene— brushing, flossing, and cleanings— is key to maintaining not only oral health, but overall wellbeing. Not only is it a good habitual practice, brushing regularly can help to prevent gum disease, plaque build-up, and bacteria growth. We are by no means claiming that brushing your teeth can keep you from getting COVID-19. However, maintaining good oral health can help you to maintain a stronger overall immune system, which in turn may help your body have a strong immune response should infection — COVID or otherwise — come.

Ecologic Dentistry in Bonney Lake is your holistic dentist. If you would like to be seen by Dr. Yamashiro, please contact our office to schedule an appointment today!