Toothbrushing in Hospital Reduces Infections and Death

Toothbrushing is potentially more effective than antiseptic at reducing the oral microbiota because the mechanical action breaks up plaque and other biofilms. Yet, guidelines have focused very little on brushing as a measure for preventing hospital-acquired infections, meaning that every hospital has its own way of doing things.

Hospital policies must reassess the importance of oral hygiene even, or perhaps especially, in situations in which attention is focused elsewhere.

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