Gum Disease Can Lead to Colon Cancer

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems your dentist in Valparaiso sees every day. In fact, the CDC reports that nearly 50% of adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. While gum disease can certainly cause some unwanted side effects in patients’ oral health, it has also been linked to overall health concerns such as an increased risk of heart disease. Now, recent research from the American Academy for Cancer Research also shows a potential link between gum disease and colon cancer. 

Survey Says…

The exhaustive study completed by the American Academy for Cancer Research surveyed just over 40,000 men and women for more than 10-years to monitor their health, diet, and, most importantly, results of colonoscopies. Just what exactly were the scientists looking for? They were most interested in two types of intestinal lesions that are often precursors to colon cancer –  serrated polyps and conventional adenomas. Since the study followed along with all aspects of the participants’ health history, the researchers were also able to see how many people had a history of gum disease. The results were interesting. 

• There was a 17% increased risk of having a serrated polyp if there was also a history of gum disease.
• There was an 11% increased risk of having a conventional adenoma if a history of gum disease was also present.
• If a participant lost more than four teeth, a common side effect of gum disease, there was a 20% increased risk of having a serrated polyp.

While these survey results certainly seem to point to a correlation between gum disease and colon cancer, researchers say that more studies are needed.

What Does Gum Disease Look Like? 

There are some tell-tale signs of gum disease that all patients should be aware of. After all, early detection of gum disease is key to treating it effectively before it has a chance to cause bigger oral health or overall health problems. Some of the most common signs of gum disease are: 

• Bad breath or bad taste that doesn’t go away
• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Gum recession

If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your dentist in Valparaiso. 

How to Prevent Gum Disease 

One of the best ways to protect your body against the potentially fatal side effects of gum disease is to avoid it in the first place. However, that’s not always possible thanks to genetics and age, two of the things that can affect someone’s likelihood of developing gum disease. This means it’s even more important to follow these tips from your dentist in Valparaiso to do everything you can to prevent gum disease development. 

• Brush your teeth twice a day
• Floss daily
• Quit smoking 
• See your dentist at least every six months

If you have questions about gum disease and its link to overall health, schedule an appointment with your dentist. 

About The Author

Dr. Joseph Majka

After earning his dental degree in 1993, Dr. Joseph Majka provided dental care for migrant farm workers’ children through the Indiana State Department of Health. Months later, he began practicing family and cosmetic dentistry. For years, he was involved in different charitable activities, providing free dental care for the underprivileged in the community. Dr. Majka has attended several continuing education courses that cover all aspects of dental care and is affiliated with numerous dental associations.

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