The Connection Between Cancer and Gum Disease

It seems that there is always new research connecting poor oral health with overall health problems. But it’s not just the teeth that need to be kept clean and healthy, it’s the gums as well. Gum disease has been linked to some scary non-dental medical issues like diabetes, strokes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. Even more recently, gum disease has also been linked to cancer.

Cancer and Gum Disease

A few recent studies have found a link between gum disease and cancer. These studies are:

1. August 2017 – A study of 66,000 women found that those who had a history of gum disease were at a higher risk for cancer of the lungs, breasts, gall bladder, esophagus, and melanoma.
2. Early 2018 – A study conducted in Finland found that the same bacteria that cause gum disease and periodontitis may also be the cause of some cancers, specifically pancreatic.

Preventing Gum Disease

While no study has been able to conclusively link gum disease to cancer, it’s still a good idea to avoid gum disease if you can. Luckily, gingivitis and gum disease can be prevented with good oral health. Below are a few ways to make sure you keep your gum tissue healthy:

• Brush your teeth and gums at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss your teeth at least once each day
• Regularly rinse your mouth with ADA approved mouthwash
• Visit your regular dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and exam

As the connection between oral health and the non-dental disease continues to grow, there’s no better reason to take excellent care of your teeth and gums. Here at Endodontic Specialists, we do all we can to preserve your natural teeth through root canal therapy. If you feel that you need a root canal, please contact Endodontic Specialists of Colorado. We have 2 locations in Colorado Springs and Pueblo, Colorado.