Medical experts have reported a rise in colon cancer diagnoses in young patients and have been looking into the potential causes of this serious trend. A recent study published in Nature suggests that a specific bacterium known as Fusobacterium nucleatum is linked to the growth and advancement of colon cancer.
The gastrointestinal tract features many types of bacteria, but F. nucleatum is usually found only in the mouth. Its presence in colon cancer patients is therefore remarkable. Identifying this connection can improve the way doctors diagnose and treat colon cancer.
These findings support the existing research that establishes a link between oral health and cancer risks. With help from your dentist, you can maintain a healthy smile and reduce factors that could put you in danger of cancer. Read on to learn more about oral bacteria, dental health, and your overall wellness.
Balance Your Oral Bacteria
Your mouth naturally contains trillions of microbiomes, including the bacterium F. nucleatum. Some bacteria are necessary to assist with digestion, but you must practice oral hygiene to keep bacteria balanced. Otherwise, excess bacteria can spread across your teeth, forming harmful plaque and heightening your risk of oral infections.
Brushing your teeth twice per day and flossing on a daily basis will remove plaque and other bacterial build-up that collects on the surface of your teeth. This will clear away residues that might otherwise lead to dental conditions like cavities or gum disease.
You might also benefit from using an antibacterial mouthwash. This product can give oral hygiene a boost while also targeting excess bacteria to promote a balanced and healthy smile.
You can also bring balance to your oral bacteria when you eat a healthy and nutritious diet. Consume plenty of vitamins and minerals that keep your teeth strong. And limit sugary and starchy foods that might contribute to plaque formation. You should drink plenty of water to flush away bacteria and fight dry mouth, a condition that can encourage oral bacterial growth.
Reduce Further Cancer Risks by Fighting Gum Disease
Did you know that studies suggest that inflammation within the body can encourage the growth of cancer cells? The inflammatory response triggers when the immune system fights bacteria or other toxins damaging the body.
While the system focuses on healing this targeted part of the body, other organs can be left vulnerable and at risk of cancer and other problems. So if you suffer from an infection like gum disease, you can see inflamed gums that can lead to many medical dangers associated with chronic inflammation.
Gum disease occurs when oral bacteria infect the gum tissue and damage the tissue. This infection will require intervention from a dentist to treat. So do not delay reaching out to your dentist about periodontal therapy to eradicate gum disease.
If possible, you can prevent these threats to your smile and overall well-being by reducing your risk of gum disease. This means adhering to a consistent oral hygiene regimen to get rid of harmful bacteria in a timely fashion. Visit your dentist for routine check-ups to maximize oral hygiene and check your smile for early signs of periodontal problems.