This blog post is part of a series of Total Health Dental Care articles to inform our readers about the connection between your oral health and your overall health.
It’s called the “Mouth-Body Connection,” and it means that poor dental health can severely deteriorate your body, especially your lungs and heart, and it can also lead to a host to other conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, strokes and even some Cancers.
What is a Pancreatic Cancer? 
Pancreatic Cancer occurs when there is out-of-control cell growth in the pancreas. The cells continue dividing and form lumps called tumors, which interfere with the normal functioning of the pancreas.
Pancreatic Cancer/Gum Disease Statistics
- Pancreatic Cancer is the 4th leading cause of cancer related death in the US.
- 74% of Pancreatic Cancer patients die after the 1st year.
- Unfortunately, treatment options are limited.
- Studies have shown positive association between gums disease and bone disease and Pancreatic Cancer.
- In one study men with a history of gum disease, had a 63% higher risk of developing Pancreatic Cancer than those with no gum disease.
- People with chronic inflammation caused by gum disease harbor higher levels of harmful bacteria and carcinogens in the mouth and gut. Over many years, this can lead to higher amounts cancer-causing nitrosamines.
Chemotherapy & Dental Health
Most chemotherapy agents suppress white blood cells, which protect against infection.
Chemotherapy also effects saliva production, leading to dry mouth, and serious dental implications.
The oral tissues can become very inflamed, cavities can become rampant, and gums may bleed easily.
Additionally, if you are a patient and either about to start or are currently undergoing cancer treatments, here at Loveable Smiles, we will provide you with a complimentary fluoride tray to save your teeth.
Shocking Truth About Gum Disease
80% of people have Gum Disease and DO NOT KNOW IT! There is usually no pain involved for people until extremely late in the degeneration. Many gum problems will go unnoticed until they are diagnosed by a dentist.
The Good News for Cancer Patients & Gum Disease
Dr. Korenman and his team are dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of gum disease and they check all their patients for it.
If you are diagnosed with gum disease, Dr. Korenman can design a treatment plan to help you keep it under control.
We urge you to call Loveable Smiles for your Total Health Dental Care appointment where we will check you for gum disease at 972-231-0585.
This is just one of many examples of how we treat people, not just teeth.
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