Dentist issues warning as new research links not brushing teeth with colon cancer
Dr. Ferak Hamid
Dr. Ferak Hamid warned about the wider health impact of not brushing your teeth and claims problems can be worsened by not taking care of your molars. And certain bacteria which are present in our mouths can be found in our colons.
Dr Hamid said: "New studies have shown a surprising connection between how we care for our teeth and the risk of colon cancer. It seems that a certain kind of bacteria, which is normally found in our mouth, can end up in our colon if we don't brush our teeth properly. This can increase the risk of colon cancer.
“It turns out that what happens in our mouth can affect other body parts, too. Not caring for our teeth can lead to unexpected problems, like making other organs sick. The bacteria is known as Fusobacterium nucleatum and can worsen those who have colorectal cancer. The kind of bacteria in the mouth is typically not found in colon tumors."
He added: “Finding this bacteria in colon tumors has been shown to lead to worse health for those people. This shows us just how crucial it is to clean our mouth through regular brushing and dentist visits. It’s not just about avoiding cavities; it’s about keeping our whole body healthy.
“The link between the health of our mouth and our overall health is really strong. Problems like gum disease can make other health issues worse, like diabetes and heart disease. This reminds us why it's so important for people of all ages to go to the dentist regularly and keep up with brushing and flossing."
Dr Hamid urges people to carry out preventive dental care, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups which he said are essential. He said: "It's not just about avoiding pain or discomfort; it's about maintaining your overall health. A proactive approach to dental care can save you from complex health issues down the line.
"Brushing your teeth twice a day is a defense mechanism against diseases both oral and systemic. This simple yet vital activity can significantly reduce the risk of harmful bacteria travelling from your mouth to other body parts." It is reported that mouth infections are on the rise as approximately half the population is no longer getting regular dental check-ups.
Mouth infections if allowed to fester can develop into deadly sepsis and are being reported by medics in areas where access to an NHS dentist is most restricted. One doctor described his hospital as “like a battlefield” given the volume of dental sepsis cases and emergency dental problems.
The take away message is your oral health is tied to your overall medical health.
Until next time stay safe and stay healthy and let’s take care of each other
James A Vito, D.M.D.