Oral health is a crucial aspect of maintaining overall health and well-being. Neglecting oral hygiene can have severe consequences, one of which is periodontal disease.

While periodontal disease can lead to various health issues, recent studies have found a link between periodontal disease and cancer.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports teeth. The primary cause of periodontal disease is poor oral hygiene that leads to the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth.

How can periodontal disease lead to cancer?

Periodontal disease causes chronic inflammation in the mouth, which releases various inflammatory agents in the bloodstream. These inflammatory agents can cause damage to various parts of the body and increase the risk of developing cancer.

The link between periodontal disease and oral cancer

It has been observed that people with periodontal disease are at a higher risk of developing oral cancer.

A study conducted by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research found that people with severe periodontal disease had a four times higher risk of developing oral cancer than those without periodontal disease.

The link between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer

A study conducted by Harvard School of Public Health found that people with a history of periodontal disease were at a higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

The study found that the risk was higher in people who had a long history of periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease and lung cancer

Studies have found that people with periodontal disease are at a higher risk of developing lung cancer.

A study conducted by the University of Helsinki found that people with periodontal disease had an increased risk of developing lung cancer, especially in those who smoke.

Periodontal disease and breast cancer

Recent studies have found a link between periodontal disease and breast cancer. The study concluded that women with periodontal disease were 33% more likely to develop breast cancer than those without periodontal disease.

Prevention of periodontal disease

Periodontal disease can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. Additionally, it is essential to avoid smoking and maintain a healthy diet to prevent periodontal disease.

Treatment of periodontal disease

Treatment of periodontal disease involves deep cleaning of the teeth to remove plaque and tartar. In advanced cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged tissue and restore the bone supporting the teeth.

Conclusion

Periodontal disease is a severe condition that should not be ignored. Recent studies have found a link between periodontal disease and various types of cancer.

It is essential to take proper care of oral hygiene to prevent periodontal disease and reduce the risk of developing cancer.