Periodontal disease is an inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial infection. Commonly referred to as gum disease, it affects more than 70 percent of people over the age of 65 in the US. Gum disease is more common among men, but even so, the infection still impacts about 38% of the female population
Birmingham, AL dentist Dr. Aaron Cook has always stressed prevention as the best way to avoid the oral health problems that go with gum disease. However, the more we understand about gum disease, the more we learn about the ways it impacts not just your oral health, but also your overall health. A recent study published in the American Association for Cancer Research concluded that gum disease is also related to an increased risk for certain types of cancer in women, like breast cancer, esophageal cancer, and gallbladder cancer.
Minimize Your Risk for Cancer
If you want to reduce your risk for developing cancer related to periodontal disease, your best bet is preventive dental care. This includes semi-annual dental visits for routine exams and cleanings as well as diligent oral hygiene.
Professional dental cleanings are an especially important part of prevention. You cannot control the plaque and bacteria that form on your teeth, but you can ensure they don’t destroy your oral health. Even with conscientious oral hygiene, you still need a dental hygienist to clean your teeth with professional instruments twice a year.
Please Call Us to Learn More
Understanding the risks involved with poor oral health will motivate you to take steps to prevent gum disease from developing in the first place. If you would like more guidance about the ways you can take control of your dental health, please call our Birmingham, AL dentist to arrange a convenient appointment.