Risk Factors For Aspiration Pneumonia

Dental Issues

Seniors are at higher risk of aspiration. As a result, aspiration pneumonia is most often seen in residents of nursing homes and other facilities that serve the elderly. However, brushing teeth and other hygiene measures have been shown to reduce aspiration pneumonia risk even in these high-risk groups.

Individuals with cavities, missing teeth, and other dental issues also may not chew food well, leaving them at high risk of inhaling food. In addition, rotten teeth and gingivitis are infectious so they have lots of bacteria in their mouth. Thus, when they inhale a small amount of food or saliva, they are infusing their lungs with bacteria that cause infection.