Anders Røsland

Between spring 2021 and spring 2023, we recruited participants for the Bergen Oral Intervention Study - BORALIS, which is part of Røsland's PhD project The impact of oral bacteria on lung function and inflammation. The study aims to to investigate if treatment of periodontitis (gum disease) in a relatively young and healthy population can improve lung function. It is hypothesized that removing the dental biofilm reduce the source of inflammatory bacteria that can reach the lungs, and thereby reduce lung inflammation and lead to improved lung function. 

Linking periodontal disease and lung health give rationale for an oral hygiene program to improve both oral and respiratory health - preventing future respiratory disease and other conditions associated with poor oral health. Patients suffering from diseases like asthma and COPD can be treated, but not cured - therefore, prevention is key!