Research is continuously being done on the effects and relation between Covid-19 and Dental problems.
Is there any link between them both??
Not much has been reported as to whether Covid-19 leads to poor oral health. However, one study done in 2021 suggests that poor oral health may have a role in the contraction of SARS COV-2.
The study states that a protein receptor known as angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE 2) is present on the cells of the tongue, gums, and teeth that can act as the entry point for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The presence of these ACE 2 receptors has been found higher in people with poor oral hygiene.
One other article suggests that gum disease and changes in dental plaque have a connection with an increase in the risk of complications from Covid-19.
Knowing that covid 19 is very contagious and life-threatening, people keep looking for its key symptoms. Sadly, some signs of coronavirus are confused with dental problems and vice versa. Both the situation needs urgent attention but have very different treatment protocols.
Following are some signs which will help you in distinguishing between the infected tooth and Covid 19.
Signs of Dental Infection:
Regular brushing and flossing are a must because our mouths are naturally full of bacteria. If these bacteria build up around the teeth, they can cause painful tooth and gum infections such as a dental abscess.
Here, pus and bacteria accumulate around the tooth’s roots and further damage it, which results in severe pain and sensitivity. If this tooth infection is left untreated, it can enter the bloodstream and cause other systemic health problems.
Following symptoms can be noted when a dental abscess spreads systemically:
Fever and chills
Insomnia, dizziness, fatigue.
Swelling on the face, jaw, and mouth.
Signs of Covid-19:
Although signs of Covid 19 are different in different cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported the following to be the most common symptoms:
Fever and chills
Cough/ shortness of breath
Sore throat, muscle pain, and body ache.
While covid 19 shares the symptom of fever and chills with a dental infection. However, the other symptoms are the key differences between both. Dental abscess presents as swelling and soreness in the face, jaw, and mouth, while coronavirus has more symptoms related to the chest and throat.
When to seek help?
If you are dealing with dental pain, thankfully, as they are not life-threatening, you can get an appointment and visit your dentist to get it treated. Meanwhile, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers, cold compresses, and salt-water rinses to get some relief from the pain.
Most patients infected with coronavirus get well with home care regime. Not everyone needs prompt medical attention. Therefore, if you think that you are infected with Covid-19, immediately isolate yourself. Contact your health care provider and take care of your symptoms at home until you are symptom-free for three days straight. If you have trouble breathing or have persistent chest pain or pressure, call the local ER immediately.
During this pandemic, it has become essential that one practices regular handwashing and excellent oral hygiene to keep oneself happy, healthy, and safe.