Inadequate oral hygiene contributes to an increased risk of endocarditis in people with congenital heart defects, according to a study conducted in Belgium, reported on its website by the European Society of Cardiology.
Prof. Philip Moons from the Catholic University of Louvain observed that adolescents with congenital heart disease use stimulants less frequently, but, compared to the control group, do not maintain proper oral hygiene (less frequent brushing of teeth and use of dental floss, and less frequent visits to the dentist) ).
The researchers conducted studies in a group of 429 adolescents with heart defects aged 14 to 19 years and a control group of 401 people. Participants completed questionnaires concerning, inter alia, alcohol consumption, smoking and drug use, as well as oral hygiene and exercise. A similar analysis was performed in a group of people aged 16 to 48.
All these factors are of great importance for the health of patients with congenital heart disease. Throughout their lives, they are more prone to various types of complications – emphasizes Prof. Moons. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause life-threatening arrhythmias and good oral hygiene can help prevent endocarditis.
The authors explain that infectious endocarditis (the lining of the inner surfaces of the heart cavities) can develop when bacteria that build up in the mouth enter the bloodstream through damaged gums, causing infection. Therefore, they add, special attention should be paid to the need to educate patients with congenital heart disease, especially children and adolescents, about the dangers of neglecting hygiene.