SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 6, 2025 - Oral Bacteria and Brain Health: A Growing Area of Concern
New research is shedding light on the powerful link between oral health and brain health, positioning dental hygiene as a key factor in the prevention of serious conditions such as strokes. With over 13 million people affected globally each year, and one in four likely to experience a stroke in their lifetime, the World Stroke Organization (WSO) emphasizes that up to 90% of strokes could be prevented through lifestyle changes—including improved oral hygiene practices.
Scientific Evidence Connects Oral Bacteria to Stroke Risk
Medical Licentiate Olli Patrakka’s recent doctoral dissertation in forensic medicine at the University of Tampere investigated how common oral bacteria, particularly viridans group streptococci, may contribute to stroke development. These bacteria, normally harmless inhabitants of the mouth, can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums during routine activities like brushing, potentially leading to inflammation in heart valves or even arterial walls.
“Dental bacteria are present in the blood clots of stroke patients in about four out of five cases,” Patrakka reported. His study gathered blood clots from stroke patients undergoing acute care, along with tissues from individuals with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis. The presence of oral bacteria in these samples suggests a significant connection between oral infections and vascular events.
Poor Oral Hygiene as an Independent Risk Factor
Epidemiological studies have identified poor oral hygiene as an independent risk factor for strokes. Patrakka’s research supports this, suggesting that inflammation caused by dental bacteria in atherosclerotic plaques may play a direct role in stroke development. He believes these findings open new possibilities for treatment approaches, potentially even the development of a bacterial vaccine.
“Considering the inflammation caused by streptococcal bacteria in the mouth is crucial in stroke prevention as part of routine dental care,” Patrakka emphasized. He also highlights the potential for future antimicrobial therapies or vaccines to play a role in minimizing the risk.
Understanding Periodontitis: A Root Cause of Systemic Illness
Dental plaque bacteria are responsible for around 95% of oral diseases. Among these, periodontitis—a severe gum infection—can cause irreversible damage if left untreated.
Symptoms include red, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, and eventually, destruction of the bone structure supporting the teeth. If not addressed early, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and even impact overall health.
Despite the known risks, oral hygiene habits remain insufficient. According to the Oral Health Foundation, 26% of British adults brush their teeth only once a day, and 25% regularly skip brushing at night—when oral health is most vulnerable. As a result, over 45% of UK adults suffer from some form of gum disease, with 10% experiencing its most severe and destructive form.
Lumoral: A Targeted Antibacterial Innovation for At-Risk Patients
Heart and transplant surgeon Dr. Tommi Pätilä of HUS New Children’s Hospital in Helsinki stresses the broader health implications of oral infections.
“Every missing tooth reduces life expectancy. This is talked about far too little,” says Pätilä.
Pätilä is also a co-developer of Lumoral, a novel antibacterial device designed to enhance oral hygiene, particularly for those with chronic gum diseases like periodontitis. Based on antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), Lumoral uses light energy and a photosensitizer to eliminate harmful plaque bacteria without contributing to antibiotic resistance. While aPDT has long been used in dental clinics, Lumoral’s home-use design allows for frequent, targeted application.
A medical device such as Lumoral, used in conjunction with mechanical brushing and flossing, offers a comprehensive approach to reducing oral inflammation. Studies show it is particularly beneficial for patients who struggle to manage plaque with conventional oral hygiene alone.
Bridging the Gap Between Dental and General Health Care
The implications of Patrakka’s research extend beyond dentistry. His findings advocate for greater collaboration between medical doctors and dental professionals across Europe.
“The dissertation integrates oral health into overall body health. Closer cooperation is essential,” notes Pätilä.
Diabetes serves as one example where chronic inflammation is widely acknowledged as a contributing factor, and timely oral health intervention could significantly affect outcomes. Patrakka believes primary care physicians must be better equipped to recognize oral health issues and make timely referrals.
“My research contributes to the growing evidence that oral health significantly influences overall health,” Patrakka states. “If teeth are in poor condition, bacteria and their byproducts can circulate directly into our bodies.”
While awareness is still growing, Patrakka hopes more young doctors will recognize the importance of oral-systemic connections.
“It hasn’t increased significantly, but it should,” he says, reflecting on his own limited exposure to the topic during medical training.
Looking Ahead: Oral Hygiene as a Key to Preventive Health
As the connection between oral and systemic health becomes clearer, maintaining thorough oral hygiene is more than a cosmetic concern—it is a critical component of preventive health care. From daily brushing and flossing to advanced tools like Lumoral, the path to better brain and heart health may very well begin in the mouth.
For more information about Lumoral and its role in advanced oral care, visit: www.lumoral.com