Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October, Breast Cancer Awareness month, is fast approaching and heightened awareness turns to breast cancer.  There are many activities scheduled all over the country and other parts of the world to collect donations that aid in the research and battle against breast cancer.   It’s important to understand the connection of breast cancer and oral health.

Breast Cancer and Gum Disease

A 16 year study by the World Health Organization concluded that gum disease increases the risk of breast cancer.  The Journal of Breast Cancer Research and Treatment reported that people with chronic periodontal gum disease are at higher risk for incidence of breast cancer.  If a person does have cancer and must undergo radiation therapy, this can completely affect the entire balance of oral health creating dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, taste alterations and more.

Other Risks of Gum Disease

The most telling sign of trouble in gum disease is inflammation.  Inflammation is considered an indication of ill-health.  Ill-health can be any number of ailments.  Gum disease, left untreated, will allow harmful bacteria to enter into the blood stream.  The plaque buildup can cause viruses in the mouth and body that can lead to a suppression of the immune system allowing illness to fester.

Gum disease should be treated immediately upon notice of any swelling, redness or bleeding.  If left untreated the risk of infection adds to the risk of deteriorating jawbone.  Once the jawbone is compromised, teeth begin to loosen and eventually fall out.

Gum disease can also be a sign of prostate cancer, pneumonia, diabetes and heart disease.

Proactive Oral Health Care

Knowing the extensive risks of untreated gum disease, you should be proactive in your attention to good oral health.

Visit your dental hygienist at least twice annually.  If you notice any difference in your gums before a regularly scheduled visit, make it a point to get into the dentist immediately.  Why wait for the worsening affects of gum disease?

Aside from the trauma gum disease can cause to your oral health, it can be a warning sign of other very serious issues with your overall health.

Rotem Dental Care in Toms River is here for you and your best oral health.  Make Rotem Dental Care part of your life in taking the best care of you!  Rotem Dental Care has been focused on a comfort approach to your dental needs for 20 years.  Don’t wait for disaster to strike.  Call Rotem Dental Care today and avoid gum disease and the risks it can cause in relation to other disease, including breast cancer.