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 dental office to schedule your next appointment. Your oral health may save your life.