Even though gum disease is a common and painful ailment, many people are not aware of its indicators or that it can spark and fuel additional health problems. You may have gum disease if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Sore, red or inflamed gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose or lost teeth
- Receding gum line
More Than Your Mouth
The effects of gum disease are not limited to your mouth. Research indicates that untreated gum disease is correlated with the development of more serious diseases, including breast cancer. In fact, one study determined that women with chronic gum disease are up to 11 times more likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetimes.
Conversely, breast cancer treatments can also increase your risk of gum disease. Chemotherapy and radiation are associated with a host of unpleasant oral symptoms, including decreased saliva production, toothaches, and changes in tasting ability. Although these treatments are often life-saving, they do eliminate white blood cells along with cancer cells. When your immune system is weakened, your risk for oral infections increases. These infections can escalate into chronic periodontitis.
If you are currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer, or have done so in the past, be sure to communicate with a periodontist about gum disease management plans.
Avoiding Lasting Repercussions
Because breast cancer and gum disease are so enmeshed with one another, it is important for women to maintain good oral health whether or not they have been diagnosed with cancer.
If your gums are troubling you, do not ignore them. Instead, seek gum disease treatment and management with Gaspari Family Dental Care. Give us a call or stop by our office to schedule your appointment.