Posted

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris want to shine the spotlight on breast cancer. Many are surprised to learn that breast cancer is connected to oral health. Some studies have reported a higher prevalence of breast cancer in patients possessing chronic periodontal disease (gum disease.) In today’s blog your Mansfield dentists share a study that discovered that patients with chronic gum disease demonstrated a higher rate of breast cancer.

Studies Find Gum Disease May Elevate Breast Cancer Risk

The Journal of Breast Cancer Research and Treatment described a study that questioned 3,273 individuals and found that those who reported chronic gum disease were more likely to report breast cancer, according to the Total Health Magazine. Another study conducted by the World Health Organization over a 16 year period reported similar findings and proposed that gum disease raises one’s risk for breast cancer.

Preventing Gum Disease

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris believe that the best way to prevent gum disease is three-fold. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once daily, and attend dental cleanings every six months. At your dental check up and cleaning, Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris’s skilled hygienists can provide a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing which treats mild gum disease. Symptoms of mild gum disease include swollen, red gums that may bleed when your brush teeth. As gum disease advances, gums pull away from teeth and create pockets where germs can thrive. Teeth may appear longer and become looser. If left untreated, patients may even lose teeth. Call our office if you exhibit signs of gum disease, and we are happy to answer your questions or schedule an appointment.

About your Mansfield Dentists

Mansfield Dental Associates rely upon their years of experience, training, and cutting-edge technology to offer patients expert dental care at each and every visit. They listen to each patient’s concerns and offer gentle, informative guidance about future treatments. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call (817) 473-6227. Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris proudly treat patients from Mansfield, South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian and neighboring areas.