The Surprising Connection Between Oral Health and Cancer: What South Africans Need to Know

Did you know that your oral health could be linked to your risk of developing cancer? While this might sound surprising, emerging discussions in the medical community suggest there may be a connection between the health status of your mouth and the development of certain types of cancer. At Smilez Dental Surgery, we believe that understanding this link is crucial for maintaining a beautiful smile and overall well-being.

This article will explore the potential relationship between oral health and cancer, why it matters for South Africans, and how you can take proactive steps to protect yourself.

What Is Oral Health, Really?

Oral health is about more than just having white teeth or fresh breath. It encompasses the head and neck region, the entire mouth, including your gums, tongue, tonsils, and the tissues inside your cheeks and outside your mouth teeth and bone. Common oral health issues like cavities, gum disease, and infections can have far-reaching effects if left untreated. In fact, poor oral health has been linked to various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and now, potentially, cancer.

Brushing your teeth is a basic hygiene action, yet it’s one that many people overlook. Consider these all-too-common scenarios:

• “I swear her teeth are turning yellow. It looks like they will start growing mold. I think the

  last time she brushed her teeth was when I made her when she was 12.” It’s so gross!

• “I chew gum, Mom. It’s the same difference.’” That’s what he says when I remind him

  about brushing his teeth, and he gives me attitude.

• “Isn’t once a day enough?” He says when I remind him to brush at night, and I’m too

  tired to make him do it.

These attitudes reflect a broader issue: neglecting oral hygiene can lead to more than just bad breath. Studies from the American Dental Association show a direct correlation between the health of your mouth and the health of your entire body. Chewing gum might mask bad breath temporarily, but it doesn’t remove the plaque and bacteria that cause cavities, gum disease, or systemic health problems.

Oral Infections: A Hidden Danger

Oral infections can develop from untreated cavities, gum disease, or complications from dental procedures like root canals or extractions. These infections may be obvious, causing pain and discomfort, or they can be silent, lingering without any noticeable symptoms. Regardless of whether you feel them, these infections can have a significant impact on your body. When bacteria from an oral infection enter the bloodstream, they can travel to other parts of the body, potentially contributing to inflammation and other health issues. This is where the conversation about cancer begins.

The Link Between Oral Health and Cancer

Clinical observations have shown a correlation between chronic oral infections and certain types of cancer. For example, individuals with persistent dental infections, such as those from

untreated gum disease or problematic root canals, have been found to have a higher incidence of solid tumors, including cancers of the breast, colon, and prostate. While causation has not been definitively proven, the association is strong enough to warrant attention. Some studies have also suggested a link between poor oral health and an increased risk of oral cancer, as well as other cancers like pancreatic or esophageal cancer.

Consider the story of a 45-year-old woman from Johannesburg. They always took care of her teeth but neglected her gums, leading to a persistent infection that went untreated for years. Later, she was diagnosed with cancer. While we can’t say for sure if her oral infection directly contributed to her diagnosis, emerging research suggests there might be a connection worth exploring.

Why This Matters in South Africa

In South Africa, oral health is often overlooked as a critical component of overall health. According to the South African Dental Association, many South Africans face barriers to accessing regular dental care, whether due to cost, availability, or cultural attitudes. For instance, 84-90% of the population relies on public oral health services, but only 25% of dentists were employed in the public sector as of 2009. High unemployment rates (30.1% pre-COVID) and poor living conditions further exacerbate financial constraints, making dental visits a low priority for many. Cultural factors, such as fear of dental environments or neglect of oral health, also play a role.

Moreover, South Africa has seen rising rates of cancer, with breast, prostate, and cervical cancer among the most common. While lifestyle factors like diet and smoking are well-known contributors, the potential role of oral health is an area that deserves more attention.

At Smilez Dental Surgery, we believe that raising awareness about the importance of oral health is key to improving both dental and overall health outcomes in our community.

Taking Action: How to Protect Your Oral Health

The good news is that maintaining good oral health is within your control. Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of oral infections and their potential impact on your health:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and bacteria. Skipping

  brushing sessions, using mouthwash only, or thinking chewing gum is a substitute can

  lead to serious oral health issues.

• Floss daily to clean between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Make sure

  you get the gums( gingiva area) for the food stuck there

• Visit your dentist at least twice a year (6 months intervals) for check-ups and

  professional cleanings. Regular visits can help detect and treat issues before they

  become serious.

• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption, as both are risk factors for oral cancer

  and other health problems.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support your immune system and

  overall health.

If you’ve been putting off a dental visit, now is the time to take action. Early detection and treatment of oral health issues can make a significant difference, not just for your smile but for your long-term health.

Your Smile, Your Health

While the link between oral health and cancer is still being explored, the evidence so far suggests that taking care of your mouth is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about protecting your overall well-being. Neglecting basic habits like brushing your teeth can lead to more than just yellow teeth or bad breath; it can impact your social life and your body’s health. At Smilez Dental Surgery, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy smile and a healthy life. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule your next dental check-up today and take the first step toward better health. For more information or to book an appointment, contact Smilez Dental Surgery—your partner in oral and overall health.