Helicobacter pylory and oral diseases

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) gastric infection is considered one of the most common human infections. It occurs in half of the world population and is the most common cause of adenocarcinoma of the distal stomach. The risk of developing gastric cancer is believed to be related to differences among H. pylori strains and the inflammatory responses mediated by host genetic factors. The accepted evidence is that the H. pylori strains reach the stomach by ingestion through the mouth and, because of its non-invasive nature, the stomach is the definitive site for colonization. One of the key issues related to the eradication of gastric H. pylori has been the importance of oral hygiene and periodontal procedures. Dental plaque control and periodontal therapy can prevent gastric H. pylori infection recurrence for patients with gastric diseases associated with H. pylori.