Gum Disease Causing Bacterial and Risk of Developing Cancer

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA, March 04, 2015 /24-7PressRelease/ -- San Francisco dentist, Dr. Ben Amini, is drawing attention to a recent study that uncovered a link between gum disease bacteria and oral cancer. While the connection between oral bacteria and heart disease has been known for some time, this latest link is only now being revealed. The study, which was performed at Case Western Reserve University, looked at the relationship between oral bacterial growth and the development of cancerous oral lesions associated with Kaposi's sarcoma. Eventually, these findings could result in development of saliva testing for cancer-causing compounds produced by oral bacteria.

Two common bacteria associated with gum disease, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis, were found to be linked to oral cancers in patients suffering from Kaposi's sarcoma. Kaposi's sarcoma, a form of cancer that frequently appears in immunocompromised patients suffering from AIDS, often manifests with oral lesions and tumors. After comparing a group of older patients with severe periodontitis and a younger group with good oral health, the researchers determined that the connection with oral cancer involved short-chain fatty acids produced by the bacteria. When the researchers applied the isolated fatty acids to cells infected by Kaposi's sarcoma, the body could not stop the cancer from replicating.

Although this study specifically looks at patients with severe immunodeficiency, its implications may extend to people without HIV or AIDS. The prevalence of gum disease and transient immunosuppression from stress or illness highlights the importance of keeping the teeth and gums healthy for reducing cancer risk. When patients visit Dr. Ben Amini, they have access to comprehensive exams and a variety of restorative procedures to repair damaged teeth and gums. Dr. Amini, San Francisco Invisalign provider, offers this treatment to straighten teeth and increase resistance to oral bacteria. To improve appearance after damage has occurred, patients can choose teeth whitening, veneers, and other options.

A graduate of San Diego State University, Dr. Ben Amini earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery at the University of California, San Francisco. Today, Dr. Amini, San Francisco implants expert, is a reputable member of several dental organizations, including the American Dental Association, the San Francisco Dental Society, and the International Congress of Oral Implantology.

About Dr. Alec Temlock, Periodontist San Francisco

Dr. Alec Temlock, board-certified periodontist at CitiDent, is a Cum Laude graduate of Boston University School of Dental Medicine, and received his Certificate of Residency in Periodontology from University of California-San Francisco (UCSF).

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