QU research reveals Covid-oral health link

Patients with periodontitis (a type of chronic inflammation of the gums) were at least three times more likely to experience Covid-19 complications regardless of age, gender and other conditions, a latest research by a Qatar University (QU) has revealed.

The research team with Dr Nadia Maarouf, associate consultant from Hamad Dental Center, was led by QU Professor Dr Faleh Tamimi, according to a statement from QU. They investigated the records of 568 Covid-19 patients and found that a significant number who suffered severe complications and even death, had advanced periodontitis.After adjusting for several factors such as patient's age, gender and chronic diseases, the link between periodontitis and Covid-19 complications was statistically significant.Periodontitis is mostly caused by poor oral hygiene and lack of maintenance of the dental condition, thus the findings of the study highlight the importance of maintaining a good dental care, and the regular teeth and gum check-ups. Dentists might play an important role in prevention of the advancement of gum diseases, the statement added.