A gateway to infection

Good oral hygiene is an essential part of the basic management of kidney and liver disease. For transplant patients, oral health care is particularly important as these patients are often at increased risk of oral infections and their complications.

The health of the kidneys and liver is closely linked to the wellbeing of the whole body, and oral health also affects the functioning of these organs. Poor oral health can increase the body’s risk of inflammation and reduce overall immunity, which in turn can negatively affect the management of kidney and liver diseases.

Jukka Meurman said, “Kidney and liver diseases and their treatments are often associated with a weakening of the body’s defence mechanisms, which can make any infection dangerous. This is especially true if patients are prescribed immunosuppressive medication, as is always the case after transplantation.” He continued, “Inflamed gums provide a direct route for bacteria in the mouth to enter the rest of the body. From the mouth and teeth, bacteria can easily enter the bloodstream through gingivitis, periodontitis, caries cavities, and mucosal ulcers. Infections of the mouth are harmful because they result in a low-grade inflammatory condition, at worst involving the whole body.