Recently, Guangzhou has been experiencing continuous low temperatures, with freezing weather. Gathering a few close friends around a steaming hot pot for a hearty feast is truly a delight. However, reporters from the Stomatological Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University have learned that a significant number of patients are developing oral ulcers and swollen gums from eating hot pot. In response, experts remind people that while hot pot is delicious, one should not overindulge, and attention should also be paid to oral hygiene.
It can cause acute exacerbation of chronic periodontal disease
According to Fu Yun, director of the Periodontal Department at the Stomatological Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, among the patients with periodontal disease seen recently, there has been an increase in those who have eaten hot pot. Does eating hot pot cause periodontal disease? "It's not entirely accurate to say that eating hot pot causes 'heatiness' which leads to periodontal disease, but it is a fact that it can trigger an acute exacerbation of chronic periodontal disease," Fu explained. Most periodontal diseases are in a quiescent state under normal circumstances. However, if the oral environment changes and the individual's immunity declines, it can lead to bacterial proliferation and increased virulence, thereby triggering an acute exacerbation of the disease, most commonly manifesting as swollen and painful gums. Furthermore, irritation from local factors, such as food impaction, can also exacerbate the condition.
Professor Lin Huancai from the hospital's Preventive Dentistry Department pointed out that the temperature of the hot pot broth can reach 100°C, and for spicy hot pot, the surface is covered with a thick layer of oil, making the temperature even higher. Eating food directly as it is taken out of the pot can easily scald the oral cavity, tongue, esophagus, and gastric mucosa. "If one already has recurrent oral ulcers, eating hot pot can easily lead to a relapse."
Cool down hot pot food before eating
Experts advise the public to be moderate when eating hot pot. First, do not be impatient; wait for the food to cool down appropriately before eating to avoid scalding the mouth. Second, pay attention to oral hygiene, do not overly seek spicy and stimulating foods, and avoid food impaction, especially from meat fibers. If symptoms of an acute exacerbation of periodontal disease, such as swollen and painful gums, appear, it is best to seek timely treatment from a specialist at a hospital.