We all know that a trip to the dentist is a wise move. It keeps our oral health in check and allows our teeth to look great and sparkly.

But did you know that just two visits a year could actually halt our chances of getting pneumonia?

According to research unveiled this week from a US-based university, people who never visit their dentist are almost 90% more at risk of contracting the potentially deadly infection and having healthy teeth can dramatically reduce the harmful bacteria that gives it a platform to spread.

OK, let’s attempt to place this new research into focus and start with the basics...

What exactly is pneumonia?

According to the NHS website, pneumonia is the inflammation or swelling of tissue in our lungs that is brought about by a bacterial infection.

Symptoms include things like a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, a cough, shivering and sweating, chest pain and a loss of appetite.

How many people does it affect in the UK?

In the UK alone, it affects about 1,000 adults yearly, and this time of year is when both the elderly and the very young are most at risk.

What does the new research tell us?

Virginia Commonwealth University found that people who never went to the dentist had an 86% increased risk of the infection when compared with those who visited at least twice a year.

In reaction to the findings, Dr Ewan Bramley, a leading Newcastle General Dentist from Ewan Bramley Dental Care, said: “This report seems to confirm a direct connection between pneumonia and oral health and stresses the importance of keeping on top of it.

“Bacteria can’t be removed from the mouth entirely but making sure you visit your dentist at least twice a year and maintaining a good oral hygiene routine can dramatically limit and reduce the level of bacteria in the mouth.”

In the US alone, over 50,000 people die every year because of pneumonia. It is more common among those who already have other serious medical conditions or diseases such as lung disease or aids, as well as those who are of an elderly age, but anyone can get it. The research carried out by the university analysed more than 26,000 people and is being taken very seriously by the dental profession.

The team of researchers involved in the new study analysed data from the 2013 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and it found that over 400 people of the 26,000 within the database had pneumonia.

Are you concerned about this new research? Would you like to see a dental expert to help you and your family establish a sustainable dental routine?

Call Ewan Bramley Dental Care on 0191 543 8719 or CONTACT US HERE and one of our friendly and professional team members will be in touch.