A Healthy Mouth Could Save You from Pancreatic Cancer

You may feel indifferent about visiting the dentist, sometimes you may even “forget” your appointment because, really, is it that important? You brush and floss your teeth twice a day so how much does going to the dentist really impact your overall oral health? The answer is: A LOT! Recent studies suggest it could even help you avoid Pancreatic Cancer.

It’s no secret that if you have a healthy mouth you most likely have a healthy body too. There are new findings and studies related to your body that come out everyday!  Staying on top of these health news updates could be the difference between getting and avoiding pancreatic cancer. Never fear, Joseph Nemeth DDS & Associates make it our duty to stay on the forefront of these health updates so we can relay them to our wonderful patients, like you! Our goal is to keep our patients as happy and healthy as they can be.

Recent Studies Link Pancreatic Cancer to Gum Disease

Gum disease is more common than you may think amongst the American population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease; they also reported that this disease is more common in men than women. That’s almost HALF of the population that is affected with periodontal disease, and they might not even know it!

Other studies have been found linking periodontal disease with pancreatic cancer. In June of 2016 the Journal of the American Medical Association revealed research that found a specific type of bacterium in the mouth is associated with pancreatic cancer.  This research was reported by Harvard Health Publications at Harvard Medical School.

The study involved 371 healthy subjects and 361 subjects that developed pancreatic cancer. The bacterium responsible for this link is called Porphyromonas gingivalis, also referenced as P. gingivalis. They found that subjects with high levels of this specific bacterium were at a 59% higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer than those who didn’t have this bacterium in their mouth.

Keep Flossing and Make An Appointment With Your Dentist!

There is not a lot known about pancreatic cancer and what causes it, however, these recent studies suggest a direct link between the two diseases. The lead researcher at New York University, Dr. Jiyoung Ahn, theorizes that inflammation from the P. gingivalis bacteria could be associated with inflammation in the pancreas, encouraging the cancer cell’s development. If this is true, why not stay on the safe side and avoid both diseases…it’s as easy as brushing and flossing daily.

These new findings are definitely something to be aware of in order to maintain a healthy body and mouth. If you are questioning whether or not you have periodontal, or gum disease, it’s never too late to visit your local periodontist right in Southfield, Michigan, Joseph Nemeth DDS & Associates. Simply call (248) 357-3100 to schedule a consult today! Also, visit our website www.DrNemeth.com to learn more about our staff and office!

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.