Periodontal disease is a common chronic inflammatory condition that affects the supporting tissues surrounding the teeth.

It is caused by the accumulation of bacterial biofilm on tooth surfaces that triggers an immune response leading to tissue destruction and tooth loss over time. While the disease is primarily associated with oral health implications, recent research suggests that periodontal disease may also increase the risk of cancer development.

This article will explore the potential link between periodontal disease and cancer and discuss the mechanisms that may underlie this association.

Periodontal Disease and Cancer

Several studies have reported an association between periodontal disease and various types of cancer.

A meta-analysis of 21 studies published in 2019 found a positive correlation between periodontitis and an increased risk of developing cancer, particularly lung, breast, and colorectal cancer. Additionally, a systematic review published in 2017 suggested that periodontal disease was associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.

While the exact mechanisms underlying the potential link between periodontal disease and cancer are not yet fully understood, several theories have been proposed, including:.

Chronic Inflammation

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that results from an immune response to bacterial pathogens.

This chronic inflammation, characterized by elevated levels of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators, has been linked to cancer development and progression.

Elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and C-reactive protein (CRP) have been detected in both periodontal disease and various types of cancer, suggesting that chronic inflammation may be a common link between these diseases.

Bacterial Infection

Bacterial pathogens that cause periodontal disease have been shown to play a role in cancer development.

Studies have reported the detection of the same bacteria associated with periodontal disease in various types of cancer, including Fusobacterium nucleatum in colorectal cancer, Porphyromonas gingivalis in pancreatic cancer, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in oral cancer. These bacteria may promote cancer development by inducing chronic inflammation, altering the immune response, and promoting cell proliferation and angiogenesis.

Dysbiosis

Periodontal disease is characterized by a shift in the oral microbiota from a commensal to a pathogenic state.

This shift, known as dysbiosis, is associated with alterations in the microbial community structure and composition, leading to an increase in the abundance of pathogenic bacteria. Dysbiosis has been implicated in cancer development and progression and may facilitate the establishment of bacterial infections in cancerous tissues.

Immunosuppression

Periodontal disease and cancer can both lead to immunosuppression, which may contribute to disease pathogenesis.

Chronic inflammation and bacterial infection associated with periodontal disease may affect the immune system’s function, leading to an impaired immune response to cancer cells. Additionally, cancer cells themselves can suppress the immune system, leading to a higher susceptibility to opportunistic infections such as periodontal disease.

Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Disease

While the potential link between periodontal disease and cancer is still under investigation, maintaining good oral hygiene and seeking prompt treatment for periodontal disease can help reduce the risk of developing both oral and systemic diseases.

Some measures that can help prevent periodontal disease include:.

Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Flossing or using interdental brushes daily to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth
Using an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacterial load in the oral cavity
Quitting smoking and consuming alcohol in moderation
Scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings

If periodontal disease is established, prompt treatment can help prevent the disease’s progression and minimize the risk of complications.

Treatment options may include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and other therapies to control bacterial infection and inflammation.

Conclusion

Periodontal disease is a common oral health condition that may increase the risk of developing various types of cancer.

Chronic inflammation, bacterial infection, dysbiosis, and immunosuppression have been proposed as potential links between these diseases. While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, good oral hygiene and prompt treatment of periodontal disease can help reduce the risk of both oral and systemic diseases.