Primghar IA Dentist | Oral Health and Cancer

Primghar IA Dentist

There are over 12 million new cases of cancer diagnosed each year. There are a large variety of different kinds of cancer, some of which are more preventable than others. It might seem obvious that brushing and flossing each day as well as avoiding tobacco can help protect you from oral cancer. However, there are types of oral cancer and other cancers that can be prevented through optimal oral care as well.

Primghar IA Dentist

Dental Care and Oral Cancer

While it’s long been known that tobacco and heavy alcohol use are the main causes of oral, head, and neck cancer, poor oral health has recently been added to the list. A 2007 study published in American Journal of Epidemiology found that poor mouth health and missing teeth were strongly linked to the development of oral cancer. Likewise, patients with healthy smiles were found to be far less likely to develop oral cancer. If you have been diagnosed with oral cancer, know that common oral health problems such as gum disease and tooth decay could be making the condition worse. Visiting our dental office regularly for professional cleanings, examinations, and oral cancer screenings to help catch signs of oral cancer early and make treatment easier and more effective.

Oral Health and Other Cancers

Poor oral health has been shown to be tied to other types of cancers outside of the mouth. For example, a recent study conducted by NYU Langone Health’s Perlmutter Cancer Center found that certain types of bacteria in patients with gum disease was tied to a higher risk of developing esophageal cancer. While esophageal cancer only accounts for 1% of new cancer cases diagnosed annually, over 90% of patients will die of the disease. Untreated gum disease opens up the tissues around the teeth to bacterial infection, allowing these harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream and infect other parts of the patient’s body. Maintaining optimal oral health can help protect you from this threat.

Your oral health effects much more than just your mouth. If you’re not taking care of your teeth, tongue, and gums, you could significantly increase your risk of developing cancer without even realizing it. If you’d like to learn more about the connection between oral health and cancer, contact Family 1st Dental of Primghar to schedule an examination and cleaning today!

 

Family 1st Dental of Primghar
Phone: (712) 957-2460
180 1st Street Northeast
Primghar, IA 51245

Return to Blog Articles

Visit Our Primghar Dental Office

Dentist Primghar

Primghar Location

180 1st Street Northeast,
Primghar, IA 51245

(712) 957-2460

Stubbe

Our Dental News

Dentist Primghar

oZtljTGYtwxwWOCLP3kZBiyYTY5WNTtTuuZSwTs9

The Significance of Dental Care During Pregnancy

Maintaining oral health throughout pregnancy is vital for expectant mothers. Research indicates that hormonal changes during this time can increase the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues. Proper dental care not only benefits the individual but also […]

Learn More
oZtljTGYtwxwWOCLP3kZBiyYTY5WNTtTuuZSwTs9

Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Dentures for Long-Lasting Performance

Maintaining dentures is crucial for ensuring their longevity and functionality. Proper care not only benefits the dentures themselves but also enhances comfort and oral health. Family 1st Dental in Primghar specializes in providing quality general dentistry services, including expertise in […]

Learn More
oZtljTGYtwxwWOCLP3kZBiyYTY5WNTtTuuZSwTs9

Achieving a Brighter Smile with Professional Teeth Whitening

Maintaining a radiant smile is essential for both personal appearance and self-confidence. At Family 1st Dental in Primghar, we offer professional teeth whitening solutions that effectively brighten smiles and transform dental aesthetics. With a focus on patient satisfaction and quality […]

Learn More