Are you wondering if gum disease and cancer have some connections? Or do you want to know how to identify them separately? Regardless of your reason, these two conditions can put your oral health and overall health in danger. Getting a regular dental appointment plays a vital role to keep your mouth and body healthy. Also, as stated by these dentists in Woden, Canberra, standard dental examinations can help keep your smile healthy and detect early oral health problems like gum disease and oral cancer.
What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal or gum diseases are usually the consequence of infections and irritation of the gums and bone encompassing and upholding the teeth. Gingivitis is the early phase of gum disease. In this early stage, the gums can become red, swollen, and may bleed. On the other hand, the severe form is called periodontitis. This condition can pull the gums away from the tooth, resulting from losing teeth or may even fall out. Gum disease is often found among grown-ups. Also, gum disease and tooth decay are the two greatest dangers to oral health.
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
It is possible to have gum disease without any side effects. That is why several people do not know that they have this condition. In any case, below are the following indications of gum disease.
- tender, red, or swollen gums
- bleeding when you brush or floss
- loose teeth
- receding gums
- pus between teeth and gums
- sensitive teeth
- discomfort when chewing
- bad breath
- a change on how your teeth fit together when you bite
- dentures that no longer fit
Gum Cancer: How About This Condition?
Gum cancer is oral cancer. Usually, the common symptoms of gum cancer are patches or irregular growths on the gums. These developments and patches are white and red. The white color, also called leukoplakia, can be benign, but the red and white patches are harmful.
Similar to gum disease, poor oral health is a common cancer risk factor for this complication. Oral cancer can be mistaken for gum disease, which is why it is necessary to maintain your oral health in good condition by getting regular dental appointments. This kind of cancers can spread rapidly. The early finding is significant for the ideal result. It also is important to visit your dentist if you have any uncommon developments on your gums that do not clear up following two weeks. Your dentist may suggest a biopsy.
Gum Disease and Cancer: Is There a Connection Between the Two?
Gum disease and cancer have no relationship. Oral cancer does not begin with indications of gum disease. However, gum disease and cancer risk factors are similar. Poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, and frequent alcohol use can cause the two conditions.
Furthermore, a study stated that older ladies with a history of gum disease might have a greater danger of having other forms of cancer, such as lung, esophagus, breast, and melanoma. The association between gum disease and cancer is not clear, yet it gives you another reason to manage your oral health properly.
Gum Disease and Cancer: Common Risk Factors
Alcohol and tobacco are the most prevalent cancer risk factor. However, these two can also increase the danger of developing gum disease. To know more about the similarity of periodontal disease and cancer risk factors, see the details below.
Tobacco Use
Tobacco products such as cigars, cigarettes, pipes, chewing tobacco, and snuff are the most significant risk factors for head and neck cancer and develop any oral problems such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Snuff or chewing tobacco can increase the danger of having gum disease and cancer in the gums, cheeks, and inner surface of the lips. Also, secondhand smoke may likewise build an individual’s risk for cancer.
Alcohol
Regular and heavy consumption of alcohol can also increase the danger of developing cancer and gum disease. Using tobacco and alcohol together intensify this risk even more.
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Research displays that infection with the HPV virus is a danger factor for oropharyngeal cancer and gum disease. Recently, HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer in the tonsils and the bottom of the tongue has gotten more normal. Sexual activity, such as oral sex, with a person who has HPV is the most popular way somebody gets HPV. There are various kinds of HPV, called strains. A study correlates some HPV strains more strongly with specific forms of cancers.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene is the most common reason why people develop the early stage of gum disease. Individuals with poor dental care or oral hygiene may also increase the risk of oral cavity cancer. Poor oral health, particularly in individuals who use tobacco products and alcohol, may contribute to an expanded danger of oral problems and oropharyngeal cancer. Regular assessments by a dentist can help prevent periodontal disease and identify oral cancer at an early stage.
Weakened Immune System
Individuals with a weakened immune system may have more danger of creating oral cancer and gum disease.
Conclusion
Gum disease and cancer are two different conditions. However, you should treat both of them seriously. Daily appointment with your dentist is one of the best practices you can do to decrease your danger of having periodontal disease and notice any form of oral cancer in its early stage. Your Toothsome periodontist in Sydney can check and diagnose any issues before they transform into huge complications. Having excellent oral care hygiene at home is essential. This habit includes brushing your teeth two times a day. Floss your gums and teeth at least once a day to lessen the chances of developing gingivitis. Try not to use any tobacco products, and drink alcohol in moderation can bring down your danger of developing oral cancer.
