Gum disease can increase your risk for cancer
New research shows that patients that have periodontal disease are at higher risk of developing some form of cancer. In particular, patients that have lost teeth due to gum disease showed between a 40-52% increased risk of esophageal and gastric cancer.
Dr. Maria Bustamante of Seven Star Dental in Cincinnati, encourages regular maintenance cleanings to prevent this from developing. While some people were hesitant to come in for regular cleanings during the peak of the COVID pandemic, letting your oral health go isn’t the best for you in the long run.
Certain bacteria that tend to increase when there are infections in the gums are also found associated with the presence of risk of esophageal cancer. This study was conducted on nearly 150,000 patients over an 18-year period by the researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in Boston, USA.
Most patients have a challenge getting their toothbrush bristles below 2 mm under the gumline. Therefore, coming in for a professional cleaning based upon the interval determined by your health condition is advised.
While most insurance companies and toothpaste commercials tend to favor going in to see a dentist twice a year, many of our patients can benefit from more frequent cleanings, due to their eating habits, home care regime, lifestyle, age, manual dexterity, or other health complications.
Our office has added several extra precautions as advised by the CDC to make sure your dental visits are safe and both you and our staff remain healthy. If you have any questions about what recommendations we have for your health, please contact our office.