Oral cancer Info

Every hour of every day, one American dies of oral cancer. The mortality rate associated with oral cancer has not improved significantly in the last 40 years. The death rate in the United States for oral cancer is higher than that of cervical cancer, Hodgkin's disease, cancer of the brain, liver, testes, kidney, or ovary. Approximately 90% of oral cancer victims are age 40 and older, recent studies indicate that increasingly, patients younger than age 40 are being diagnosed with oral cancer. Though tobacco and alcohol use are the primary lifestyle risk factors that contribute to the development of oral cancer, 25% of oral cancer victims do not use tobacco or alcohol, and have no lifestyle risk factors. Oral cancer affects men more than women; 2:1, but oral cancer in women is on the rise nationwide.  

Link between Periodontal disease (gum disease) and Cardio vascular disease 

Cardiovascular disease, the leading killer of men and women in the United States, is a major public health issue contributing to 2,400 deaths each day. Periodontal disease, a chronic inflammatory disease that destroys bone and gum tissues that support the teeth affects nearly 75 percent of Americans and is the major cause of adult tooth loss. And while the prevalence rates of these disease states seems grim, research suggests that managing one disease may reduce the risk for the other. The American Academy of Periodontology is concerned about new research linking gum diseases to a heart attack or stroke.A recent study presented at the American Association for the Advancement of Science meeting suggests that the bacteria present in gum diseases may trigger blood clots which can contribute to a heart attack or stroke.

Bisphosphonates:

Bisphosphonates are commonly used for the prevention and treatment osteoporosis.osteonecrosis of the jaw has been observed in individuals with cancer who undergo invasive dental procedures such as dental implants or tooth extractions while receiving treatment with intravenous bisphosphonates. ONJ can cause severe, irreversible and often debilitating damage to the jaw. The FDA recognizes additional risk factors associated with the development of osteonecrosis (not limited to the jaw) in cancer patients, such as female sex, advanced age, edentulous regions, combination cancer therapy, blood dyscrasias/metastatic disease, anemia coagulopathy, surgical dental procedures, and prior infection.

How does it affect your dental treatment for someone who is taking bisphosphonates?

The decision about what treatment you should receive must be made by your dentist in the exercise of his or her best judgment. However, in light of the precautions, dentists are advised to determine whether you are receiving bisphosphonate therapy. If so, invasive dental procedures should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.

Proper brushing technique

Proper brushing is essential for cleaning teeth and gums effectively. Use a toothbrush with soft, nylon, round-ended bristles that will not scratch and irritate teeth or damage gums. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. Researchers have established that thousands of microbes grow on toothbrush bristles and handles. Most are harmless, but others can cause cold and flu viruses, the herpes virus that causes cold sores and bacteria that can cause periodontal infections