"Study Links Regular Toothbrushing to Lower Mortality in Specific Patient Groups"
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine has found that daily toothbrushing can significantly reduce the risk of pneumonia and mortality among ICU patients on ventilators. The research, which analyzed over 2,700 patients, showed a 20% reduction in death rates and a shorter ICU stay by nearly two days. Experts emphasize the importance of oral care in preventing hospital-acquired infections, particularly pneumonia, which has a high mortality rate. The findings suggest a need for improved oral care policies in healthcare facilities, despite the practice being somewhat overlooked and undervalued in the medical community.
