Study Found Gum Disease Could be Linked to Oral Cancer Virus

Medical News from The British Health Foundation

A totally preventable disease, gingivitis, when left untreated, has been linked to an oral cancer virus in a study done by the British Health Foundation released in an article June 2012.

As we begin the 2012 Olympics, we see the picture of perfect health from all the athletes.  We admire them and look upon them with awe, but what are we doing to care for our own health through diligent oral heal care?

Oral Health is the Window to Overall Health

The study conducted by the British Health Foundation wants to inform all people that gum disease could be linked to an increased risk of head and neck cancers caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).  This study follows a similar 2008 study announced by the American Dental Association that people with periodontal disease have a higher risk of cancer.

The Karolinska Institute in Sweden found that failure to brush teeth properly and use good oral health practices lead to a plaque buildup, causing severe gum disease that can lead to deadly forms of cancer.

The significance of this research is compounded by the fact that the loss of teeth is most prevlent in people who have gum disease than through tooth cavity. Therefore, it seems evident that if you have tooth loss, you may have serious bone loss, indicating advanced gum disease.

What You Can Do to Prevent Gum Disease

A quote from Dr. Carter of the British Health Foundation: “A greater understanding of how we can tackle this potentially life-threatening disease could lead to many lives being saved”.

Ocean County dentist, Dr. Ron Rotem, has been helping people change unhealthy oral habits and converting the damage of unhealthy teeth to healthy, beautiful smiles.

Dr. Rotem suggests that brushing at least twice daily, flossing twice daily and decreasing sugary foods is a good start to the road of good oral health.  Of course, smoking is known to cause cancer so it is highly recommended that you not smoke.

Regular checkups and professional oral cleaning is definitely a huge part of maintaining oral health.  If you have swollen or bleeding gums, it is highly recommended you have at least four oral cleanings per year.

If you have had significant tooth loss, call Dr. Rotem today to find out how you can regain the feeling of natural, healthy teeth with dental implants or implant dentures.

Don’t wait until it’s too late.  Call Ocean County dentist, Dr. Ron Rotem, for a thorough examination and consultation to put yourself on the healthy oral-health regimen needed to prevent gum disease that could be linked to oral cancer virus.