I heard on the news the other night that Patrick Swayze was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I remember thinking, "It can't be true, Patrick Swayze has always been seen as a healthy, vibrant celebrity icon!" I was in awe that a man who I had seen television and the movie screen throughout my life as a somewhat healthy individual was now dying at the age of 55. I know they said on the news that he had a good prognosis and that they found the tumor fairly early, but I always remembered hearing bad stories about pancreatic cancer.

I "googled" pancreatic cancer online to see what it was all about. In an article written by the National Cancer Institute, they say that "only 4% of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer will survive for more than 5 years after they have been diagnosed." The rest will not even live that long. That was very scary to me!

I proceeded to look at the signs and symptoms out of curiosity. Much to my surprise, being in the dental field, gingivitis and periodontal disease were on the list! I knew oral health was related to heart disease, but pancreatic cancer, too?

The above story just reconfirms how important your oral health really is. Not just with your mouth and heart, but throughout your body. Not only should you maintain a healthy tooth care routine by brushing and flossing, but allow Dr. O'Neil to help look for early signs of tooth decay and periodontal disease that may indicate other health issues.

Contact us if you have questions about your tooth health, or would like to make an appointment for your next cleaning or exam.