Is There a Link Between Gum Disease and Cancer?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is never a good thing.  At the very least, it is a chronic infection of the mouth and the number one cause for tooth loss.

In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of serious medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes, and now new research is suggesting cancer may be on the list too.

• A Harvard University School of Public Health study in 2007 uncovered a strong correlation of advanced gum disease in men to a 63% higher incidence of pancreatic cancer.
• Another research report in the Lancet Oncology journal confirmed cancer risk increases when gum disease is present.  Even moderate levels of gum disease contributed to an overall 14% risk of lung, kidney, and blood cancers.
• A research team involving Imperial College of London and Harvard University studied statistical health records with over 21 years of data for 50,000 patients. They found a 33% increase in the risk of lung cancer, a 50% rise in the risk of kidney cancer, and a 30% higher incidence of blood cancers in patients with gum disease.

While studies are ongoing to discover how oral health could put people at risk for serious medical conditions, the most likely explanation is inflammation.  Gum disease is one of the most common sources of chronic inflammation in the body and oral bacteria can get into the bloodstream easily through thin mouth tissue and swallowing. 

We don’t have solid answers yet, but the research is startling.  What is clear is that taking care of our teeth and gums could be one of the most important choices we make for our overall health.  Brushing, flossing and seeing the dentist regularly may be more important than we ever realized.

If you would like to learn more about how Dr. Dan Hopper and his team can help you have optimum dental health and a smile you love, call: (916) 624-3119  Rocklin, CA