Month: June 2019

Source: https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/poor-oral-health-linked-to-75-increase-to-this-deadly-cancer

The latest study is preceded by research, albeit limited research, that has linked oral health and different kinds of cancer.

A  massive new UK study uncovered an unsettling link between poor oral health and an increased risk for liver cancer.

“Poor oral health has been associated with the risk of several chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes,” commented Dr. Haydée WT Jordão, who is the lead author of the study. “However, there is inconsistent evidence on the association between poor oral health and specific types of gastrointestinal cancers, which is what our research aimed to examine.”

The new report pulls from brain imaging and genomic data from 475,766 people over a six-year study period. Analyzing self-reported cases of bleeding and painful gums, loose teeth and mouth ulcers, the researchers enacted an investigation of the correlation between these conditions and risks for gastrointestinal cancers, namely liver cancer, colon cancer, rectal cancer, and pancreatic cancer. The study found zero notable associations with dental hygiene in all but one of the gastrointestinal cancers observed in the report.

The pervasion of  hepatobiliary cancer

More than 800,000 people are diagnosed with liver cancer a year worldwide, making it one of the leading causes of death. Direct causes of hepatobiliary cancers are seldom able to be determined resolutely. Typically its development is factored by several underlying causes.

The latest study is preceded by research, albeit limited research, that has linked oral health and different kinds of cancer. A U.S study published back in 2017 found that women with a history of gum disease experienced a greater risk for tumors in the esophagus and in their breasts.  Another independently conducted study observed a link between oral health and the development of pancreatic cancer in African American women.

Young people, women, individuals living in impoverished areas, and people that consumed less than two portions of fruits and vegetables a day evidenced the highest cases of poor oral health in the latest study conducted by researchers at Queen’s University Belfast. Although a high-risk increase was uncovered as a result of poor oral health, the researchers can only speculate as to why at the moment. Leading conjecture looks to the ever-perplexing gut microbiome.  Since the liver is responsible for exterminating several harmful bacteria in the human body, it makes sense that bacteria could conversely play a role in inflicting prolonged damage to the body, in the event of the organ becoming compromised.

“One bacteria, Fusobacterium nucleatum, originates in the oral cavity but its role in liver cancer is unclear. Further studies investigating the microbiome and liver cancer are therefore warranted,”Jordão explained.

Another theory surmises that people with missing teeth, consume softer less nutritious foods to compensate, which ultimately makes the liver venerable to cell mutations.  As it stands, of the 469, 628 participants studied,  4,069 developed gastrointestinal cancer during the six-year follow up,  Thirteen percent of these expressed poor oral health at the start of the study period.  More research needs to be conducted to support a causal influence behind the findings intimated in the United European Gastroenterology Journal

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.

Dental visits often come along with fear and anxiety. Our dentists can help you get rid of anxiety and spread a positive vibe at your child’s dental checkup. At your child’s first dental visit to our office, you can expect the following:

First Tooth, First Visit
According to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child’s first visit to the dentist begin around the time they get their first tooth. The first visit allows your child to get familiar and with the passing time they get used to seeing the dentist and dental staff regularly. The more positive experience your child has, the more comfortable they will become with regular dental care.

Tooth decay can occur as your child’s first tooth appears. It is equally important to address the concerns initially on primary teeth else it could result in higher risk. If the decay is severe, it harms a child’s overall health, thereby leading to infection.

What to Expect at the First Visit
The first dental visit is all about introduction to the practice, dentists and hygienists. It is typically shorter and involves less treatment time.

After checking in, we will acquire information about the family and your kid’s dental health history. Once you provide us with the required information, you can be rest assured that the best dental care is provided.

Once your kid has been called by the assistant, we will take your family to the private room, providing privacy and comfort. Meanwhile your child will become familiar to the office. Depending on the age, our dentist will suggest x-rays.

Though x-ray may seem quite early, it is an important tool that helps in monitoring the growth and development of your child’s mouth, jaw and teeth. Owing to child’s continual growth and development, the ADA recommends x-rays at the age of 2, continuing for every 6-12 months.

X-ray helps in diagnosing problems that are barely visible with a naked eye, like tooth decay, damage to the mouth structure and dental injuries.

Our dentist will ask you to hold your child in your lap for brushing. Our assistant will then clean your child’s teeth with a motorized toothbrush, however if your child is fearful, they will manually clean your child’s teeth with a small toothbrush.

Once the teeth are cleaned, our dentist will perform an analysis by checking your child’s existing teeth for decay. They also examine bite and look for any potential gum problems. If there is still a need, our dentist will recommend fluoride.

Later on, our dentist will educate you and your child on implementing the proper brushing techniques. They will also discuss diet and fluoride needs and recommend oral care products to take care of teeth.

Tips for Your Child’s First Dental Visit

Reward Good Behavior
Stay away from words like “pain” or “fear” and keep rewarding your child’s good behavior through positive reinforcement. To make your child’s experience a relaxing one, our dentists deliver care in a fun and friendly environment. They also keep praising the effort to reinforce and strengthen oral hygiene habits.

Be a Mentor
Set positive expectations before your child’s visit to the dentist. For doing the same, brush and floss with them altogether. Help them understand the importance of regular dental visits.

We would love to see you at our office. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step towards your child’s improved oral health.

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.