Optimal oral health is far more than just a question of aesthetics. Scientific studies in recent years have impressively proven that healthy teeth and gums have a fundamental influence on our general health. As your dental practice in the heart of Zurich, we would like to share the most important scientific findings with you in this newsletter and show you why regular dental check-ups and professional teeth cleaning are among the most valuable investments you can make in your health.
Today, modern dentistry sees the oral cavity as a gateway to the entire body. Inflammation and bacterial infections in the mouth do not remain isolated, but can have systemic effects on the entire organism via the bloodstream. These findings emphasise the central importance of preventive measures for your long-term health.
The connection between oral and physical health is well documented in medical research. The oral cavity harbours a complex ecosystem of over 700 different types of bacteria. While many of these are useful for digestion and protection against pathogens, pathogenic bacteria can lead to serious health problems if oral hygiene is inadequate.
Bacterial plaque, also known as biofilm, forms continuously on the surfaces of teeth. If this plaque is not removed regularly and thoroughly, it initially leads to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). If this remains untreated, it can develop into periodontitis - a chronic inflammation of the entire periodontium. These inflammations have far-reaching consequences that extend far beyond the oral cavity.
It is particularly noteworthy that bacteria from inflamed gum pockets can enter the bloodstream via the smallest of injuries. This so-called bacteraemia occurs particularly frequently when chewing, brushing teeth or during dental procedures. The bacteria can then reach various organs via the blood vessel system and trigger inflammatory reactions there.
The link between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease is one of the best-studied correlations in medical research. As early as 1989, Finnish researchers demonstrated that patients with acute myocardial infarction or stroke had significantly poorer oral hygiene status than healthy comparison groups.
A groundbreaking long-term study with 1147 participants over 18 years provided clear results: Severe periodontitis increases the risk of coronary heart disease by a factor of 1.5, with a 1.9-fold increase in the risk of fatal heart disease and a 2.8-fold increase in the risk of stroke. The Swedish PAROKRANK cohort study confirmed these results: People with periodontitis had a 49 per cent higher risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke within the next six years.
The German Dental Association and the Federal Association of Registered Cardiologists have launched a cooperation in 2025 to raise awareness of these connections. Dr Romy Ermler, Vice President of the German Dental Association, emphasises: "Periodontitis, an inflammation of the periodontium, is a so-called silent disease that is initially asymptomatic and can therefore cause a great deal of harm behind the scenes.
The mechanisms behind this connection are well researched. On the one hand, oral bacterial species can enter the bloodstream directly and contribute to the development of arteriosclerosis. A study from 2020 showed that the bacterial species found in periodontitis are also factors in the development of arteriosclerosis when they enter the bloodstream. Secondly, periodontitis leads to increased inflammatory mediators throughout the body, which can affect the cardiovascular system.
- At least once a year for a dental check-up
Control - even without complaints
- Regular professional dental cleaning in the
Twelve-month intervals for optimum protection
against caries and periodontitis (twice a year if necessary)
- Consistent oral hygiene at home with
twice daily tooth brushing, use
of fluoride-containing toothpaste and daily
Cleaning the interdental spaces
- A healthy diet with reduced
Sugar consumption
- Pay particular attention to risk factors such as
Diabetes, pregnancy, smoking or
also sporting activity
A bidirectional relationship
The connection between diabetes mellitus and periodontitis is bidirectional - in other words, both diseases influence each other. Diabetics have a three times higher risk of developing periodontitis than people without diabetes. At the same time, untreated periodontitis makes blood sugar control more difficult and can worsen the symptoms of diabetes.
Scientific studies show that untreated periodontitis can have a negative impact on the HbA1c value - an important indicator for blood sugar control. Diabetics with severe periodontitis also have an up to 8.5-fold increased risk of kidney disease. These findings are particularly relevant as almost 1 million people in Switzerland suffer from severe periodontal disease.
The good news: successful periodontitis therapy can improve glycaemic control in diabetics. Numerous studies have shown that effective periodontitis treatment can have a positive effect on the blood sugar levels of diabetics with periodontal disease, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. Well-controlled diabetics respond just as well to periodontitis treatment as people without diabetes.
Optimum oral health is particularly important for expectant mothers. Inflammation and infections are among the most common reasons for unfavourable pregnancy outcomes such as premature births or reduced birth weight. Scientific studies have shown that women with periodontitis have a significantly increased risk of pregnancy complications.
The research results are impressive: studies by Offenbacher and colleagues have shown that periodontitis can increase the risk of premature birth by a factor of 7.5. A meta-analysis showed that pregnant women with periodontal disease have a 4.3-fold higher risk of premature birth and a 5.3-fold higher risk of an underweight premature baby compared to patients with healthy periodontal disease.
The mechanisms are manifold: on the one hand, bacteria from the oral cavity can reach the foetus and placenta via the bloodstream; on the other hand, the messenger substances produced in the inflamed tissue lead to systemic inflammatory reactions that can impair the course of the pregnancy. In addition, the risk of pre-eclampsia (pregnancy poisoning) is significantly increased in women with periodontitis. Studies show odds ratios of 4.33 to even 19.8 for the occurrence of pre-eclampsia in the presence of periodontitis.
The list of diseases associated with periodontitis is impressive and includes all four major common diseases: Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease and cancer. There are also links with rheumatoid arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and even mental illnesses such as depression.
In respiratory diseases, inhaled bacteria from the oral cavity can infect the airways and exacerbate diseases such as pneumonia. A link between poor oral health and the development of COPD has also been established. Chronic inflammation also puts a permanent strain on the immune system, leaving the body with little energy to fight other pathogens.
The link between oral health and mental health is also becoming increasingly important. Tooth root inflammation can affect the human psyche through systemic inflammatory processes, causing those affected to become depressed. Bacteria can attack the brain's metabolism and thus control the emotional state
There is a surprising but scientifically well-documented link between oral health and athletic performance. Studies conducted during the 2012 Olympic Games in London showed that toothache was the second most common problem for which athletes sought medical help. In 18 per cent of those affected, dental problems had performance-reducing effects.
Studies show that athletes have a higher risk of tooth decay, enamel erosion and gingivitis. In a study of 300 athletes during the Olympic Games, 55 per cent were found to have tooth decay and 45 per cent tooth erosion. There are many reasons for this: sports nutrition often contains a lot of sugar as a quick source of energy, and isotonic drinks contain tooth-damaging acids. In addition, intensive training leads to increased mouth breathing, which reduces saliva production and provides ideal conditions for bacteria to multiply.
A Korean long-term study with over 160,000 test subjects showed impressive results: Frequent tooth brushing and regular professional dental cleaning reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation by 10 per cent and heart failure by 12 per cent. These findings emphasise that good oral hygiene not only promotes oral health, but also actively contributes to the prevention of systemic diseases.
Dental infections and inflammation can weaken the immune system and impair physical performance. Periodontitis can also reduce respiratory effectiveness due to chronic inflammatory processes. A healthy set of teeth is therefore essential for athletes - whether in competitive or recreational sport - to achieve optimum performance.
Dental hygiene (professional tooth cleaning) is an elementary component of an overall concept to prevent tooth decay and periodontitis. Even the most conscientious oral hygiene at home cannot combat all stubborn bacterial plaque - the main cause of tooth decay and periodontitis.
Dental hygiene goes far beyond plaque removal as part of the usual check-up. Scientific studies have shown that professional tooth cleaning every six to twelve months is the ideal complement to thorough brushing.
The process of professional teeth cleaning comprises several steps: Firstly, a thorough examination of the teeth and gums is carried out. Soft plaque and tartar are then removed from the teeth, including hard-to-reach areas in the interdental spaces and at the gum line. The teeth are smoothed by polishing, which makes it more difficult for bacteria to colonise the teeth. Finally, a fluoride-containing protective film is applied to provide additional protection against tooth decay.
Regular dental check-ups are essential for long-term dental health. Experts recommend that adults have a check-up once a year - even if there are no symptoms.
The reason is simple: many dental diseases are asymptomatic in the early stages. Small carious areas in the interdental spaces, which do not yet cause any symptoms, can only be recognised by a dental examination and x-rays. Gradually developing periodontitis can also be detected at an early stage. When the first symptoms appear, the disease is often already well advanced and can only be treated with great effort.
During the check-up, not only the teeth and gums are carefully examined, but also the condition of the oral mucosa and tongue.
People with an increased risk of dental disease - such as diabetics, smokers or people who have already experienced gum disease or tooth decay - may need more frequent visits to the dental practice. More frequent check-ups are also advisable during pregnancy.
Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two to three minutes - in the morning after breakfast and in the evening before going to bed. This is the absolute minimum for good oral health. It is particularly important to brush your teeth thoroughly in the evening, as saliva production is greatly reduced at night and therefore there is no natural protection against bacteria.
The right brushing technique is crucial: use a soft toothbrush and apply little pressure when brushing. Too much pressure can injure the gums and wear away the enamel. Position the brush at a 45-degree angle so that it lies half on the gums and half on the teeth. The modified Bass technique recommends small, shaking movements, followed by wiping movements towards the chewing surface. Ideally, brush your teeth before consuming highly acidic meals or drinks to better protect them from acid attack. Alternatively, you can use a fluoride mouth rinse.
Do not rinse your mouth after brushing your teeth so as not to wash away the caries-defending effect of the fluoride
Fluoride is the best way to prevent tooth decay. It hardens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acids and bacteria. Dentists and professional organisations worldwide recommend the use of toothpaste containing fluoride. Studies show that toothpaste containing fluoride can reduce the risk of tooth decay by up to 40 per cent.
A toothpaste with 1000 to 1500 ppm (parts per million) fluoride is recommended for adults. The fluoride content is stated on the toothpaste pack. An overdose through normal use of toothpaste is practically impossible - an adult would have to consume the contents of more than 30 tubes of toothpaste to get into a dangerous situation. For sensitive teeth, we recommend sensitive toothpastes such as Elmex Sensitive professionel (Repair & Prevent).
Cleaning the spaces between the teeth is at least as important as brushing the teeth themselves. Around 40 per cent of tooth surfaces are located between the teeth - areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. This is where food debris, bacteria and plaque accumulate particularly easily, which significantly increases the risk of tooth decay and gum inflammation.
There are two main options for cleaning the interdental spaces: Dental floss and interdental brushes. The choice depends on the size of your interdental spaces. For very narrow interdental spaces, especially in the front teeth, dental floss is the best choice as even the smallest interdental brushes will not fit. Interdental brushes are more effective for larger spaces, especially between the molars. They fill the entire interdental space and also clean recesses and grooves that dental floss cannot reach.
Ideally, it should be used once a day, preferably in the evening before brushing your teeth. The Swiss Dental Association (SSO) recommends either a combination of interdental brushes and dental floss or only interdental brushes - however, dental floss alone does not clean sufficiently.
Yes, there are a lot of bacteria and degradation products on the tongue.
Therefore, clean your tongue regularly with a tongue cleaner - there are tongue scrapers and tongue brushes. Tongue cleaning removes bacteria that accumulate on the surface of the tongue and can effectively prevent bad breath. Once a day is sufficient.
Sugar is the biggest enemy of teeth. The bacteria in the mouth convert sugar into acids, which attack the tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. It is not only the amount of sugar consumed that is important, but also the frequency. It is better to satisfy a craving for sweets once a day than to snack repeatedly throughout the day.
Watch out for hidden sugars in foods such as muesli, fruit yoghurt, ketchup, ready-made sauces or fruit juices. Products labelled "sugar-free" or "no added sugar" can also promote tooth decay if they contain glucose, fructose, lactose or maltose.
Hard, fresh and less sweet foods are good for dental health. Hard vegetables such as carrots or kohlrabi can help to remove plaque and tartar. Fresh foods such as salads and raw vegetables encourage saliva production through chewing, which helps to neutralise bacteria in the mouth. Cheese and other dairy products contain calcium, which strengthens tooth enamel and replenishes minerals that have been dissolved out of the enamel.
Replace your toothbrush or the head of your electric brush regularly. We recommend changing it at least every three months or sooner if the bristles are worn.
Smoking is massively detrimental to oral health. Nicotine impairs the blood supply to the gums, making them more susceptible to periodontitis. If inflammation persists, the gums recede and the stability of the teeth can be lost. Smokers have a significantly increased risk of tooth loss due to periodontitis.
