There was sad news for baseball fans recently. Tony Gwynn of the Padres died of oral cancer, something Gwynn blames on his use of smokeless tobacco. Apparently, the habit is rampant throughout Major League baseball teams.

A 1999 survey found that nearly a third of Major League rookies were regular smokeless tobacco users (primarily chew and snuff). Other studies found that approximately 30% of all players were smokeless tobacco users. Recognizing the growing trend and the message it sent to young fans, the MLB set forth rules regarding the use of these products. Still, in 2012, approximately 11% of high school boys were using smokeless tobacco.

Users typically tuck chewing tobacco or snuff in the side of their mouths and spit out the juices. Snuff is occasionally inhaled (snorted) through the nose. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention points out that these products contain 28 carcinogens, a known cause of oral cancer.

Gwynn was diagnosed with cancer in 2010, which began in his salivary gland. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation to fight this aggressive cancer. Unfortunately, it had progressed too far. Oral cancer has one of the worst survival rates of all cancers, taking the life of one American every hour.

Smokeless tobacco users become physically dependent on and emotionally addicted to nicotine. Nicotine, the addictive substance found in cigarettes, occurs naturally in all tobacco. Those who try to quit go through a withdrawal phase, which can cause weeks of depression, headaches, irritability, weight gain and dizziness.

As hard as it may be to quit, reducing the risk of oral cancer is worth it. Users should immediately react to any spot or sore in the mouth or on the lips. Also, a persistent sore throat or difficulty swallowing are symptoms that should be checked immediately. When treated early, oral cancer is survivable.

If your gums bleed when brushing or are tender, you probably have gum disease. This bacteria has been associated with heart disease and increased risk of cancer. However, for pregnant women the effects can be severe for their unborn child.

Scientists have linked preterm and low birth weight babies to gum disease bacteria. Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant should ensure their oral health is at an optimal level by having a thorough periodontal exam.

Expecting fathers should also maintain good oral health, especially during this time. Even those with gingivitis (an early stage of gum disease) can spread bacteria to the mother by kissing or sharing food and drinks.

Be proactive about the health of your mouth, for you and your baby! Regular dental checkups and cleanings are always important, particularly during pregnancy.  Contact us promptly if you have not had a dental checkup in the past 6 months. Call (828) 274-9440 for an appointment.

It looks like, finally, periodontal (gum) disease is getting some serious press through a public relations campaign coordinated by the American Academy of Periodontists (AAP).

Chris Harrison of the ABC programs “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette” has been appointed a national spokesperson for the AAP’s “Love The Gums You’re With” campaign. The goal is to utilize Mr. Harrison’s informative messages through television, radio, digital and social media. (Want to join the tweets? Go to #loveyourgums!)

The campaign is intended to give the public a voice that expands awareness of the importance of periodontal wellness. This effort follows a Centers For Disease Control study that showed that half of American adults over age 30 have some level of gum disease, an alarming statistic.

As prevalent as periodontal disease is amongst adults, it has remained largely an unfamiliar problem in the U.S.  Most adults are typically unaware of the health issues associated with periodontal disease.

Not only is gum disease the leading cause of tooth loss, the bacteria can become bloodborne through tears in diseased gum tissues. This can trigger an inflammatory reaction elsewhere in the body. Gum disease bacteria has been associated with heart disease, stroke, memory loss, diabetes, arthritis, preterm babies, and other serious problems.

Be a spokesperson, too! Learn about the causes, prevention and treatment of periodontal disease at: www.perio.org.

Want some simple tips for fresh breath this Summer (and beyond)? Here are a few things to help with more confident closeness:

• Drink lots of water! Colas, sweet tea, and ‘power ades’ don’t count. Pure, clean water cleanses the mouth and adds to saliva’s ability to wash bacteria from the mouth. Bottled water, tap water or even water from a garden hose are all welcome!

• Rid oral bacteria from your tongue! The tongue is a perfect haven for bacteria to embed and reproduce. Ideally, use a tongue scrapper each day. If you don’t have one (in the oral care section of most drug stores), brush your tongue with your tooth brush. When your mouth has fewer bacteria, your breath will have a ‘cleaner’ scent.

• Relish summer fruits and skip sugary treats! Oral bacteria thrives BEST on acid attacks that occur every time you eat or drink when sugar is present. Natural sugar in fresh fruits doesn’t have the same impact.

• Rely on a cuke! When your mouth is dry and a slice of cucumber is nearby, hold it against the roof of your mouth for a couple of minutes. This activates more saliva production, which helps to cleanse the mouth of particles and bacteria.

Enjoy your Summer with a smile and feel confident in closeness!