Recent research has identified a particular type of bacteria that can cause severe oral health problems, regardless of a human’s immune system. Researchers found that a family of proteins that protect humans, called interferon lambdas, are reduced by a bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis. Therefore, this can leave a person vulnerable to infection. Porphyromonas gingivalis is also heavily connected to gum disease, making it a dangerous type of bacteria.
Researchers from the University of Louisville’s School of Dentistry in Kentucky, United States, have analysed a form of bacteria that can increase a person’s vulnerability to viruses and speed up the onset of gum disease.
The researchers identified that some of the proteins we rely on to protect us from viruses and infections can actually be suppressed by the bacteria, which is called porphyromonas gingivalis [1].
As a result, the researchers are aiming to raise awareness of this type of bacteria. This case also shows the importance of strong oral health. By having great oral hygiene, we can lessen the chances of bacteria affecting us.
The mouth and viruses
The mouth is commonly the entry point for viruses and infections. Specifically, viruses that attack the gastrointestinal tract and lungs, normally enter via the mouth.
Conditions that enter through the mouth include Herpes, HIV, and even some cancer-causing viruses. Moreover, Covid-19 is known to enter through the mouth [2]. The world has seen in the last two years the impact a virus can potentially have.
The Research
The researchers started by analysing Interferon lambdas – a family of proteins that are known to protect the body. These proteins are produced by epithelial cells in the mouth [3]. Epithelial cells are those that protect compactly packed cells. These cells are responsible for protecting humans from viral infections.
However, the researchers found that a type of oral bacteria called porphyromonas gingivalis reduces the production of these proteins [1]. Therefore, when this bacteria is present, the person becomes more vulnerable to infection [1].
The researchers analysed in depth what happens when porphyromonas gingivalis comes into contact with the human mouth. It was after seeing the effects it had, that they were able to make their conclusions [1].
Another worrying effect that porphyromonas gingivalis had on the human body was gum health. The researchers found that porphyromonas gingivalis causes gum disease. Furthermore, it can also hasten the development of periodontal disease, which is a more severe type of gum disease.
This dangerous bacteria can cause a build up of plaque. Over time, this plaque will eventually weaken enamel. Plaque will cause the gums to become infected, and cavities will also appear.
Gum disease can cause several problems. For example, tooth loss is a possible eventual complication of gum disease. Therefore, it is important for humans to try and avoid gum disease. As a result, this bacteria can be very damaging.
Because porphyromonas gingivalis has been linked to several other conditions, this finding was unsurprising for the researchers. The bacteria has also been connected to Rheumatoid Arthritis and Alzheimer’s Disease [4].
What this study shows
This study shows the importance of trying to reduce bacteria in the mouth wherever possible. In an age of many viruses, the more protection we have, the better.
The best way to limit the amount of bacteria in the mouth is to have excellent oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and attending regular dental check-ups. Sugary and high-calorific foods and drink will often contain harmful bacteria. Therefore, having a healthy diet can also help.
Juhi Bagaitkar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Disease at the University of Louisville, was among those to carry out the research. Bagaitkar commented on the findings [5].
She said that their team had found that the bacteria porphyromonas gingivalis “can completely suppress interferon production and severely enhance susceptibility to viral infection” [5]. Moreover, she continued “these resident oral plaque bacteria play a key role in regulating anti-viral responses” [5].
The authors suggested that in the future, methods of finding ways to increase protection against this specific bacteria could be enacted. Further research into sources of this bacteria is expected in the future.
Thinking points…
- 1) The bacteria above is known to cause gum disease. Many people worry about gum disease, and rightfully so. If you are worried about gum disease, the best thing to do is book a check-up with your dentist. They will be able to assess your mouth and provide advice and treatment if necessary.
- 2) You would be surprised at how easily bacteria can make it into the mouth. Anything we put in our mouths will contain bacteria. Whilst food and drink is obviously understandable, there are other habits we should stop. For example, not biting your nails, avoiding chewing on a pen lid or any other unnecessary activity. Think about the practical steps you can take to lessen bacteria in your mouth.
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides its patients with a warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice whenever needed.
We recommend that our patients attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. We also have some cosmetic treatments too!
Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.
In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.
We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
- [1] Rodriguez-Hernandez, C. J., Sokoloski, K. J., Stocke, H. D., Jin, S., Metzler, M. A., Zaitsev, K., Shpak, B., Shen, D., Miller, D. P., Artyomov, M. N., Lamont, R. J., & Bagaitkar, J. (2021). Microbiome-mediated incapacitation of interferon lambda production in the oral mucosa. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 118(51): e2105170118. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2105170118.
- [2] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Scientists find evidence that novel coronavirus infects the mouth’s cells. Available: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/scientists-find-evidence-novel-coronavirus-infects-mouths-cells. Last accessed: 8th January 2022.
- [3] Bandoim, L. (2019). Epithelial Cells: Definition, Function, Types & Examples. Available: https://sciencing.com/specialized-cells-definition-types-examples-13718073.html. Last accessed: 8th January 2022.
- [4] Heflin, J. (2019). UofL researcher part of international team to discover bacterial pathogen in Alzheimer’s patients. Available: https://www.uoflnews.com/post/uofltoday/uofl-researcher-part-of-international-team-to-discover-bacterial-pathogen-in-alzheimers-patients/. Last accessed: 8th January 2022.
- [5] Coffman, B. (2022). UofL researchers reveal how oral bacteria suppress protection against viral growth. Last accessed: 8th January 2022.
