With the arrival of October comes an influx of candy, scary costumes, and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Grocery stores roll out pink displays for select items, and certain candy companies even offer all-pink versions of their most popular sellers. Almost every major sport in America helps spread awareness.
The Major League Baseball World Series features pink ribbons painted on the field. The National Football League encourages everyone to display pink, from the most elite quarterbacks, to the lowliest of towel boys. Many people remain unaware of the link between oral health and an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The dentists from Dental Associates of Moreno Valley discuss the connection between gum disease and breast cancer.
Breast Cancer / Gum Disease Link
According to a study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO), patients with gum disease could experience an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Many scientists fail to acknowledge the oral –systemic connection, but evidence points to prevalence of gum disease in people with certain medical conditions.
Breast cancer can affect women and some men, and the WHO study certainly continues to highlight the importance of maintaining a strict oral hygiene regimen to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Gum Disease Prevention
Preventing gum disease can appear difficult in this day and age. Currently, roughly 80% of American adults will experience gum disease during their life. Roughly 20% of those people remain unaware of their periodontal issues. Additionally, gum disease serves as the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the United States.
Gum tissue and bone provide support for teeth, and periodontal disease can result in tooth loss. Gum irritation, swelling, and bleeding all warrant a call to your dentist at Dental Associates of Moreno Valley. In order to give yourself the best chance of preventing periodontal issues, make sure to brush twice daily, floss regularly, and finish your hygiene regimen using an ADA-approved antimicrobial mouthrinse.