It seems that nearly everyone knows somebody who has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Typically fatal, it is the 4th leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. No one knows the exact cause of pancreatic cancer. When periodontal disease develops to a point where pockets form from loss of attachment of the gums to the root of a tooth, the predominant microflora (bacteria) change to varieties which exhibit the greatest proteolytic (protein dismantling) activity and tend to be the most virulent.
P. gingivalis, T.forsythia, and T. denticola comprise the group of bacteria known as the Red Complex. The Red Complex is responsible for chronic periodontitis and secretes peptidylarginine deiminases which breaks down arginine (one of our bodies basic building blocks). P.gingivalis and fusobacterium are known to stimulate tumorigenesis and human oral tumor proliferation.
Patients with pancreatic cancer have higher levels of antibodies to P.gingivalis. This suggests that patients with higher antibody levels are at higher risk to develop pancreatic cancer. Oral bacteria producing higher levels of peptidylarginine deiminases may lead to genetic mutations by degrading arginine. Once proven, the real cause of pancreatic cancer may be revealed.
The writing is on the wall: good oral health may be the real key to deadly systemic diseases.
Take charge of your health today! Schedule an appointment at Northpointe Dental Care in Blaine, MN by calling 763-200-5807. You can also schedule online.
