Which of the following is a consequence of a lack of oral hygiene?

• A. Stroke
• B. Heart disease
• C. None of these
• D. Pneumonia

Answer: (D)

A lack of oral hygiene increases the amount of bacteria in the mouth. In people who have trouble swallowing or are otherwise at risk of aspirating, those oral bacteria can be inhaled into the lungs. The inhaled bacteria can cause aspiration pneumonia, a lung infection that arises from material or bacteria coming into contact with the lower respiratory tract. Keeping the mouth clean lowers the bacterial load and reduces the chance of this infection, which is especially important for older adults, people who are bedridden, or those with swallowing difficulties. While some studies explore links between gum disease and cardiovascular conditions, the direct and most relevant consequence tested here is pneumonia from aspiration.