For years, dentists have warned about the dangers of oral bacteria. After all, it’s what is responsible for things like gum disease, cavities, and painful tooth infections. But recent studies have found that not only is it harmful to your mouth, but one particular strain of oral bacteria called Streptococcus anginosus can travel throughout the bloodstream and cause potentially fatal brain abscesses. Here’s what you need to know.
How Does Oral Bacteria Affect the Brain?
Although it’s easy to see how oral bacteria can harm your mouth, recent research has shown that it can harm your brain, too. In fact, a recent study in the Journal of Dentistry revealed that of 87 people studied with brain abscesses, those with no clear cause for the condition were three times likelier to have high levels of oral bacteria in their lesions than the others!
How To Reduce Oral Bacteria
One of the best ways to lower your risk of many dangerous oral and overall health problems including brain abscesses is to reduce levels of bacteria in your mouth. You can help accomplish this by doing the following:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss daily.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid bad oral habits like smoking or vaping, as these can cause your mouth to dry out and allow bacteria to proliferate.
- Get regular dental exams and cleanings every six months.
- Treat tooth infections, cavities, and periodontal disease promptly as recommended by your dentist.
Why Treating Tooth Infections is So Important
Tooth infections can not only be extremely painful, but if left untreated, could require a root canal or even an extraction to fix. Worse yet, if the bacteria spreads throughout the mouth and body, you may need multiple treatments and may even develop a secondary infection like a brain abscess, which is life-threatening.
Remember, while brain abscesses are uncommon, they are still possible if you don’t treat your tooth infection promptly. Thus, in the event of a dental emergency, seek help from your endodontist as soon as possible- it could truly save your life!
About Dr. Vaziri
Dr. Peyman Vaziri earned his dental degree at Case Western Reserve University, where he earned both an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) and his specialty degree in endodontics. He has currently performed over 12,000 root canals and has repeatedly earned the Cleveland Best Dentist award since 2005. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, and the American Association of Endodontists. To schedule an emergency appointment for a toothache, call Parkway Endodontics at 440-960-2660.
