Gum Disease Increases Risks for Breast Cancer

The Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study was an eight-year study involving nearly 94,000 postmenopausal women. Of these, 73,737 were included in a sub-study on breast cancer. This study found that postmenopausal women with gum disease were at a higher risk for breast cancer – even in cases where no family history of the disease existed. Risks for breast cancer increased significantly among women who smoked in addition to having gum disease, though even nonsmokers saw a 14% increase in breast cancer development during this study.

Gum disease can have a profound impact on your systemic health. Linked to several types of cancer – including pancreatic, lung, and esophageal – gum disease is also a known risk factor for heart attack, liver and kidney failure, and complications with pregnancy and diabetes among many other potentially life-threatening diseases and illnesses. If you have begun to notice symptoms of gum disease, please call Oradell dentist Dr. Howard Perlmutter at 201-384-9292 to schedule a periodontal examination right away.

Gum Disease Symptoms

Symptoms of gum disease may include:

• Red or swollen gum tissue
• Gums that bleed when brushed
• Persistent bad breath or a chronic bad taste in the mouth
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Receding gum tissue

If you are noticing any of these symptoms, Dr. Perlmutter can help with targeted and proven periodontal treatments that serve to eliminate existing bacteria and help prevent future infection. Quick action is necessary, though. Once symptoms are present, gum disease can progress rapidly, resulting in serious oral and systemic health problems.

To schedule your periodontal examination with Dr. Perlmutter, please contact Oradell Family Dental. We welcome patients from all Bergen County communities.