SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 6, 2025 - Recognizing the Connection Between Oral and Overall Health
As the world marked the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, a powerful reminder emerged: oral health is far more than cosmetic—it is an essential pillar of whole-body wellness. Especially among older adults, maintaining a clean and healthy mouth significantly impacts the prevention and management of chronic diseases.
Periodontal Disease in Older Adults: A Growing Concern
Periodontitis affects up to two-thirds of people over 65, making it one of the most prevalent oral diseases in older adults. The condition is even more common in individuals living with diabetes. While gum disease may begin silently, its consequences can echo far beyond the mouth.
"Clean mouths, teeth and dentures are a priority in the oral care of older people, as they prevent both decay and various types of oral infections. Inflammation of the gums is thought to be linked to the risk of heart attack, among other things," says Tommi Pätilä, a cardiac and organ transplant surgeon at the New Children’s Hospital in Helsinki.
Scientific studies have revealed that poor oral health is associated with over 200 chronic diseases, including respiratory and rheumatic conditions. Notably, research published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that individuals with poor dental health had a 20% higher risk of developing dementia or memory loss.
Prevention Begins with Simple Habits
Maintaining strong oral hygiene through consistent habits—brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups—remains the first line of defense.
“Simple measures, such as regular brushing and cleaning of gaps between teeth and regular dental check-ups, can help prevent the onset of gum disease while minimising the risk of oral bacteria or their structures entering the bloodstream and spreading to other parts of the body,” adds Pätilä.
These preventive strategies are especially vital for those with underlying conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease, as they are more susceptible to infections originating in the mouth.
Oral Hygiene and Surgical Safety
Good oral health isn’t just about comfort and confidence—it’s also crucial in surgical preparation.
“Preventing and treating oral infections is also necessary before surgery,” says Pätilä. Before procedures such as prosthetic joint or flap surgeries, dentists must confirm the absence of any asymptomatic infections in the oral cavity, as bacteria can otherwise enter the bloodstream and cause post-operative complications.
Lumoral: A Finnish Innovation Supporting Aging Populations
While daily brushing and flossing are essential, they may not be sufficient, particularly for seniors facing physical challenges like reduced motor skills, vision, or memory. Enter Lumoral, a Finnish-developed light-activated therapy designed to combat the bacterial root causes of oral disease.
“Lumoral retards plaque formation and significantly reduces problem-causing bacteria in the mouth. Notably, older people align well into the product's user profile, as thorough oral hygiene is so important in this age group,”notes Pätilä.
Using antibacterial light to target pathogens like Streptococcus mutans and gingivitis-related bacteria, Lumoral acts as a precision tool in maintaining oral health, especially for seniors with chronic periodontitis or those struggling with conventional hygiene methods.
Lumoral in Peri-Implantitis Treatment
In a recent pilot study, Lumoral demonstrated effectiveness in the treatment of peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the soft and hard tissues around dental implants. The study included patients with either diagnosed peri-implantitis or milder forms of the disease.
After incorporating Lumoral into their at-home care routine, patients experienced a significant reduction in plaque and gingival bleeding around inflamed implants.
In four out of seven cases, inflammation levels in the implant pocket normalized—a promising outcome.
"The device is intended primarily for people whose conventional oral hygiene does not produce desirable results. This is often the case, for example, with patients suffering from chronic periodontitis."
Researchers concluded that regular and repeated use of Lumoral can prevent and reduce implant-related inflammation, while supporting broader oral health goals for aging populations.
A Smarter Approach to Senior Oral Care
With growing evidence linking oral hygiene to systemic health, Lumoral presents a new standard in senior dental care—one that bridges the gap between daily routines and advanced therapy. Its growing endorsement by professionals, including the Finnish Association of Oral Hygienists, reflects a shift toward more effective and accessible solutions for those who need it most.
For more information on Lumoral and its role in preventive oral care, visit www.lumoral.com.