Your oral health is often indicative of your overall health, but this isn’t always a direct correlation. Rather, someone who takes care of their teeth is often the type of person to be mindful of their health, manifesting itself in other areas, such as a better diet, regular exercise, or taking care to avoid high stress. There has long been a positive correlation between a number of cancers and poor oral health, which has typically been chalked up to an indirect correlation, as mentioned above. But recent research has indicated a more direct link. Periodontal treatments in Adelaide, and around Australia, may help to prevent some cancers.

A recent study, and one that controlled for unhealthy habits like smoking, saw a two-fold increase in the incidence of colon and lung cancers among those who exhibited poor gum health. Published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, this US-based study utilised data from nearly 7500 dental examinations, across four US states. Colon and lung cancers were the most likely present themselves, and patients exhibiting cases of severe periodontitis were 24%, on average, more likely to develop them. Among people with no teeth, the figure jumped to 28%.

While it had been long hinted that such a correlation may go beyond normal healthy lifestyles, this is among the first instances of proof. It has been speculated that perhaps your body can only cope with so much swelling, and that redirecting white blood cells to cope with your swollen gums leaves the rest of your body open to attack. Others have speculated that more sickly gums mean they are more porous, allowing for direct entry of free radicals and bacteria in to your bloodstream.

These are only theories. But this study does underline the importance of proper dental hygiene, and periodontal treatments, in Adelaide and elsewhere. If you are in any doubt about the state of your gums, contact National Periodontics today, and book an appointment at one of our numerous locations around Australia.