Preventative Dental Care can Prevent Cancer

Health hazards commonly associated with chronic periodontitis (gum disease) go far beyond the mouth. People have been warned for years that persistent periodontitis can be one of the causes of heart disease. A new study suggests that gum disease may also be a risk factor for many other cancers of the head and neck.

The journal: Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention, the study included 207 control subjects & 266 patients with cancers of the head or neck treated between 1999 and 2005.

Dr. Mine Tezel, The State University of New York, Buffalo, & his colleagues noted: “Alveolar bone is the ridge of bone that surrounds the roots of the teeth, holding them in place. Loss of this bone is typically seen with severe periodontal disease.”

The report indicates every millimeter of alveolar bone loss increases the risk of head and neck cancer by 4-fold. (One millimeter is about the size of the head of a pin.) This link also noted in subjects who never used tobacco or alcohol.

We are not just Cosmetic Dentists but at The Dentist Studio Dentistry we are committed to go above and beyond in periodontal health. We want for our patients to live a long, healthy life. By remedying a small problem now you can avoid disaster in the future. We provide dental care to promote your overall health.

We want to make all of our patients aware of this very important study. If you do not take care of your gums, you are not just harming you mouth but your entire body.  Make sure to brush, floss and have regular checkups.  You may say “I don’t have the time” but think of all of the time and money one of these horrible diseases will cost you.

*SOURCE: Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention, September 2009.