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Published on: October 20, 2011
Bacteraemia due to dental flossing
Kenneth Crasta1, Christopher G Daly, David Mitchell
1Discipline of Periodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
Journal of Clinical Periodontology
|May 12, 2009
Summary
Dental flossing can cause transient bloodstream infections (bacteraemia) in both healthy and periodontitis patients. Viridans streptococci, linked to infective endocarditis, were frequently detected, highlighting potential risks similar to some dental procedures.
Area of Science:
- Oral Health
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Dental flossing is a common oral hygiene practice.
- Bacteraemia following dental procedures is a concern for infective endocarditis (IE) prevention.
- The incidence and microbial profile of bacteraemia after flossing are not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of bacteraemia after dental flossing in individuals with and without chronic periodontitis.
- To identify the specific microorganisms responsible for post-flossing bacteraemia.
- To explore potential patient or clinical factors associated with bacteraemia.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from 60 participants (30 with periodontitis, 30 healthy) before and after standardized flossing.
- Blood cultures were analyzed using a BACTEC system to detect and identify microorganisms.
- Participants were assessed for chronic periodontitis or periodontal health.
Main Results:
- Bacteraemia occurred in 40% of periodontitis patients and 41% of healthy individuals.
- Viridans streptococci, a pathogen associated with IE, was identified in 19% of positive cases.
- No significant associations were found between patient or clinical factors and post-flossing bacteraemia.
Conclusions:
- Dental flossing can induce bacteraemia in both healthy and periodontally diseased individuals.
- The rate of bacteraemia is comparable to that of certain dental treatments requiring antibiotic prophylaxis for IE prevention.
- Further research may be warranted to assess the clinical implications of flossing-induced bacteraemia.
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