Periodontal Disease and Cancer

Young woman suffering from toothache
Periodontal Disease and Cancer

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is one of the biggest threats to oral health. It’s the leading cause of tooth loss among American adults and can cause other serious issues with the bones in your jaw if left untreated. While gum disease is a serious issue, and can have a hugely negative effect on your life, there’s an even more worrisome problem that arises if you find yourself suffering from gum disease: an increased risk of cancer.

What role does periodontal disease play in cancer?

Gum disease’s most noticeable impact on your life is tooth loss—and tooth loss has been linked to an increased likelihood of cancer. Numerous studies have shown a rise in rates of oral cancer if you have periodontal disease or tooth loss in general. This is one of the many reasons that if you feel you may be suffering from gum disease, you should see Dr. Trujillo, your periodontist in Phoenix, immediately. Treating gum disease as early as possible will reduce the chances of you contracting cancer from any of periodontal disease’s negative effects.

What cancers am I at risk for if I have tooth loss?

Unsurprisingly, oral cancer is the number-one cancer risk associated with tooth loss. While this association makes intuitive sense, it isn’t the only risk. There are also proven links between tooth loss and upper GI and gastric cancers as well. One study performed in Japan showed that there was a two-fold increase in a person’s chance of contracting upper GI and gastric cancers if they were missing 10 or more teeth, compared to people missing fewer than 10 teeth. Strong evidence also exists to link tooth loss to pancreatic cancer. Avoiding tooth loss and periodontal disease produces many benefits to your health apart from the obvious.

How can I prevent tooth loss?

The easiest way to prevent periodontitis is by following the same simple tips every dentist has been giving you for years: brush and floss regularly, and don’t miss your dental checkups. These simple activities prevent the buildup of plaque that spurs gum disease. By performing regular oral care, you’re doing all you possibly can to protect yourself from contracting the cancers associated with tooth loss. If you are exhibiting signs of gum disease, contact the Arizona Periodontal Group today to request an appointment.

Gum recession prevention. Woman with healthy gums smiling.

Preventing Gum Recession: Daily Habits and Lifestyle Tips That Make a Difference

Let’s talk about something most people don’t notice until it’s already happening: gum recession. It’s one of those silent issues that can sneak up over time, slowly exposing more of your tooth, making you sensitive to cold, and leaving you[…]

Read More

smiling male All-On-4 dental implant patient.

All-on-4: 95% Success at 10 Years – What You Should Know

If you’re missing multiple teeth—or facing the reality of full-arch tooth loss—you may feel overwhelmed by your options. Traditional dentures? Costly full-mouth implants? Fortunately, there’s a proven solution that combines comfort, efficiency, and long-term results: the All-on-4® dental implant system.[…]

Read More

Woman checking her teeth after tooth restoration appointment

How Dental Implants Compare to Bridges and Dentures: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Tooth loss can have a serious impact, not just on your smile, but on your confidence, oral health, and ability to enjoy daily life. Whether you’ve lost a single tooth or several, choosing the right tooth replacement solution is essential[…]

Read More