How is pancreatic cancer related to teeth and gum?
Many people know how much a dog’s teeth can affect his health, many older dogs have to get teeth pulled and some even pass away from diseases and infections that started in the teeth. so it turns out humans have something in common with dogs.
The basics: Like many areas of the body, your mouth is teeming with bacteria most of them harmless. Normally the body's natural defenses and good oral health care, such as daily brushing and flossing, can keep these bacteria under control. However, without proper oral hygiene, bacteria can reach levels that might lead to oral infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Beyond just creating cavities or gum disease, improper oral care can lead to some other pretty scary health conditions:
Pancreatic cancer: Back in 2007, a research team at Harvard was the first to find the link between gum disease and pancreatic cancer. The type of gum inflammation associated with pancreatic cancer in the study was periodontitis, which affects the tissue that support the teeth and can cause loss of bone around the base of the teeth.
Endocarditis is an infection of the inner lining of your heart (endocardium). Endocarditis typically occurs when bacteria or other germs from another part of your body, such as your mouth, spread through your bloodstream and attach to damaged areas in your heart.
Cardiovascular disease as some research suggests that heart disease, clogged arteries and stroke might be linked to the inflammation and infections that oral bacteria can cause.
Pregnancy and birth problems: Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Alzheimer’s disease: In 2010, researchers from New York University (NYU) concluded that there is a link between gum inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease, after reviewing 20 years of data on the association.
Beyond wanting a healthy smile and fewer trips to the dentist to fill a cavity, our teeth and gums are incredibly important for the overall health of our entire body so floss daily too in addition to brushing.
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