In the United States, the incidence of liver cancer has tripled since 1980, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). According to the ASCO, liver cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among men. Research indicates that it is more likely that you will develop this type of cancer if your oral health is poor.

It is well documented that certain conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, can be aggravated by an unhealthy mouth. This fact has been reaffirmed by a large-scale study conducted in the United Kingdom that found that people with poor oral health (sore and bleeding gums, loose teeth) had a 75% higher risk of developing liver cancer. 

Conducted by Haydee Jordao, the study analyzed the effects of oral health on several digestive system cancers, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, and of course, the liver. They found no link between oral health and the overall risk of gastrointestinal cancer.

However, their study found a strong correlation between liver cancer and cancers of specific organs. The researchers are still unsure of why this may be the case. This could be explained by the liver’s role in eliminating bacteria from the body. Perhaps diseases such as cancer impair the liver’s ability to function. In addition to decreased oral health, poor nutrition can lead to obesity and other health problems that stress the body. 

We place a great deal of importance on your oral health, and we think you should too. Contact our Waldorf Periodontics office to schedule your next appointment. Your oral health may save your life. 

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (703) 894-4867
Url: https://drkarlsmith.com/
2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria, VA 22302

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (301) 638-4867
Url: https://drkarlsmith.com/
601 Post Office Rd., Suite 1-B
Waldorf , MD 20602

When the sun is shining, the world seems to smile. All the extra sun may be beneficial for your gums as well. But how? Our Waldorf orthodontics team is happy you asked. Let’s find out.

Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D. Despite this, nearly one billion people worldwide lack adequate levels of vitamin D. Apart from keeping bones and teeth strong, vitamin D also supports a healthy immune system, making it a crucial component of our health. When the immune system is weak, many health problems can occur, including gum disease. Inflamed or sore gum tissue can cause loose teeth, painful gums, and even tooth loss.

You may notice a difference in your immune system if you get more sunlight. Although it doesn’t replace your daily oral hygiene routine, that extra bit of sun could keep your gums healthy and happy. But the fascinating part is that sunlight is free.  So why not take advantage of it?

Enjoy your outdoor fun while knowing that your oral health and overall health are being taken care of because of the sun. Contact our Alexandria, VA orthodontics office to schedule your next appointment and avoid gum disease.

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (703) 894-4867
Url: https://drkarlsmith.com/
2500 N. Van Dorn St., Suite 128
Alexandria, VA 22302

Karl A. Smith, DDS, MS
Phone: (301) 638-4867
Url: https://drkarlsmith.com/
601 Post Office Rd., Suite 1-B
Waldorf , MD 20602