Poor Oral Health in the Etiology and Prevention of Aspiration Pneumonia

Frank A Scannapieco

doi:10.1016/j.cger.2023.01.010

Poor Oral Health in the Etiology and Prevention of Aspiration Pneumonia

Clin Geriatr Med. 2023 May;39(2):257-271. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2023.01.010.

Author

Frank A Scannapieco¹

Affiliation

¹ Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Foster Hall, 3435 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].

PMID: 37045532
DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2023.01.010

Abstract

Aspiration pneumonia (AP), inflammation of the lung parenchyma initiated by aspirated microorganisms into the lower airways from proximal sites, including the oral cavity, is prevalent in, and problematic for, the elderly, especially those in institutions, and for those with several important risk factors. Many factors influence the pathogenesis of AP, including dysphagia, poor oral hygiene, diminished host defense, and underlying medical conditions. This article reviews the epidemiology, microbiology, pathogenesis, and prevention of AP, focusing on the role of poor oral health as a risk factor for, and on dental care for the prevention and management of, this important infection.

Keywords: Biofilm; Dental plaque; Lungs; Mouth; Oral microbiome; Pneumonia; Respiratory infection.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Aged
Deglutition Disorders* / etiology
Deglutition Disorders* / prevention & control
Humans
Mouth / microbiology
Oral Health
Pneumonia, Aspiration* / etiology
Pneumonia, Aspiration* / prevention & control
Risk Factors