While there is limited data on COVID-19 due to its recent emergence, the German Society of Dentistry and Oral Medicine (DGZMK) has emphasized the importance of dental prevention and the systemic relevance of dentistry, especially during the pandemic. They cite several recent studies suggesting that good oral health can reduce the severity of COVID-19 cases. Prof. Roland Frankenberger, president of the DGZMK, stated: “In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, dentistry has a particularly important role to play in keeping the oral cavity healthy. Dental prophylaxis strengthens the immunocompetence at the point of entry of the virus and helps to avoid infection or to mitigate its course.”
A healthy oral cavity acts as a barrier against numerous diseases under normal circumstances. Dr. Frankenberger notes that this remains true for COVID-19, where studies suggest that poor oral hygiene may lead to more severe viral courses.