The Oral Microbiome and the Risk of Lung Infection

By Frank A. Scannapieco, DMD, PhD

The oral cavity harbors a diverse collection of microorganisms, known as the oral microbiome, which is responsible for common oral diseases, such as dental caries and periodontitis.¹ Because the oral cavity is contiguous with the trachea and lower airway, it is plausible that microbes from the oral cavity may be aspirated into the lower airway, causing lung infections. Furthermore, biological mediators released from an inflamed periodontium may be aspirated into the airway, inciting lung inflammation and increasing susceptibility to infection.²

* References can be found in the original article via the link below.
Read Article