Patients with inflammation caused by periodontitis may experience more severe COVID-19 complications, according to an article published online July 30 in the Journal of the California Dental Association. Good oral hygiene prevents bacteria in the gums from entering the bloodstream and triggering inflammation, which prompts the release of the protein interleukin-6 (IL-6). Since high IL-6 … Continue reading Can gum disease affect COVID-19 severity. Research suggests that it can.