How Periodontal Disease May Raise Your Oral Cancer Risk
Simply put, most of us will endure problems related to periodontal disease at some stage in our lives, yet it is completely preventable. A recent study proposes that periodontal disease is a real and independent risk factor for oral cancers. That’s why periodontists and clinicians, all over the world are seriously advocating the need for good oral care with regards to overall health.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease or periodontitis is distinguished by the inflammation of the tissue located near the root of your teeth, or gums. In its more progressive stages, the periodontal disease might cause damage to your gums and even start invading the bone that supports your teeth in place. Although gum disease is treatable but, if left untreated can cause you to finally lose your teeth and lead to further medical emergencies.
How Periodontal Disease is Linked to Oral Cancer
An untreated gum disease causes your body to align to an enhanced inflammatory state, which results in a less responsive immune system. Over time, this can lead to an irreversible damage to your immune system which is considered to be a key factor linking periodontitis to oral cancers. An increasing number of studies show that the existing periodontal disease presents considerably higher risks of oral cancer, in case patients who smoke and drink alcohol and the ones who don’t. These studies deem it clear that good dental hygiene is imperative to save lives.
Some Oral Cancer Facts
Oral cancers comprise a group of cancers normally categorized as head and neck cancers, forming around 85% of that category. Approximately 30,000 instances of oral cancers are diagnosed each year, and around 8,000 oral cancer deaths are reported annually. Therefore it’s essential to check for the early warning signs of oral cancer on a regular basis to get a timely and effective treatment.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease
While routine dental tests are needed to remove tartar and discover early indications of gum disease, oral health starts with following good oral care routine at home. Here are a few steps you can take to avoid gum disease and maintain a sound oral health for a lifetime:
- Brush and Floss –The perfect way to avoid periodontal disease is to brush and floss regularly to effectively get rid of mouth bacteria.
- Visit Your Dentist – Visit a periodontist regularly to detect the early signs of periodontitis even before the appearance of symptoms.
- Stop Smoking – Smoking reduces circulation that maintains gums health and significantly contributes to gum disease.
- Watch Your Diet – Consuming a balanced diet, avoiding sugary snacks to ward off the bacteria that cause gum disease.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum – Sugar-free gum can help boost the secretion of saliva to maintain an optimum condition inside your mouth for preventing plaque formation.
Stellar Dental offers the best, affordable periodontal care in Maryland. To learn more about our periodontal care or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (301) 754 1900.
Stellar Dental is a leading dental service provider based in Maryland with offices at White Oak and Hyattsville. We strive to provide the best dental care solutions and a state-of-the-art facility to our patients. Our major services include – dental implants, Invisalign, braces, 6 Month Smiles and other general dentistry procedures. We have a team of warm, friendly and compassionate dental professionals.
