Could the bacteria lurking in your mouth hold the answer to failed hip or knee replacements in sufferers of arthritis?
It may sound unbelievable, but a study by the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in America has linked oral bacteria to surgery problems.
Researchers suggest the issues begin when the bacteria escapes from the mouth and enters the bloodstream.
They say it could be the reason artificial joints fail within 10 years of surgery, despite no infection being involved.
A total of 36 patients, all of whom were attending the University Hospitals Case Medical Centre for treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, were included in the study.
The patients had both natural and artificial joints. Samples of their synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant in joints, were taken from each patient. Those selected also had signs of gum disease and dental plaque samples were taken for the study.
Plaque build up can damage the gums and allow the bacteria to enter the bloodstream, once this happens the bacteria can reach all the organs and potentially cause damage.
There was a DNA link between the bacteria in the synovial fluid and the plaque in the mouth of five patients. Of the five, one rheumatoid arthritis sufferer had a failed natural joint and one had a failed replacement joint, while two osteoarthritis patients had failed artificial joints and one had a failed natural joint.
Researchers have believed that bacteria in the mouth was causing problems for arthritis patients, but were unable to find the evidence to support the theory.
Now a link has been discovered, further studies are needed to see if treating gum disease can lead to a higher percentage of successful joint replacement surgeries.
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