Air pollution can affect oral health. A study conducted in Brazil has demonstrated for the first time that exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), a major component of urban air pollution, causes changes in oral tissues and accelerates the destruction of periodontal tissues that support teeth.
The results from the study by researchers from São Paulo State University (UNESP) and the University of São Paulo (USP)—and published in Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health—were obtained by exposing mice to polluted air collected in the area around Doutor Arnaldo Avenue in western São Paulo in a controlled environment.
The researchers observed that exposure to PM2.5 exacerbates inflammation in periodontal tissues and intensifies alveolar bone loss.
The most surprising findings, however, were observed in the mucosa lining the tongue.
“Even in animals without induced periodontal inflammation, we identified significant changes in the oral mucosa, including thickening of the tissue lining the tongue, increased keratin deposition, and a higher number of degranulated mast cells,” Professor Luis Carlos Spolidorio said.
“These results suggest that the oral mucosa may be particularly sensitive to the effects of air pollution.”
In addition to these structural changes, the study showed increased production of inflammatory markers (cytokines) and oxidative stress in the tongue and periodontal tissues. The latter are responsible for supporting and protecting the teeth.
According to the researchers, this set of changes indicates that exposure to PM2.5 promotes a biological environment conducive to the development and intensification of inflammatory processes.
The results of the study reinforce the existence of a biological link between exposure to air pollution and changes in oral tissues.
