Lower Your Breast Cancer Risk with Free Periodontal Screenings at Holmdel Periodontics & Implant Dentistry

Did you know that women with periodontal disease (gum disease) are 11 times more likely to develop breast cancer? In addition, postmenopausal women with periodontal disease have a 14% higher risk of breast cancer. If those women are smokers or former smokers, the risk rises to 36%.

Dr. Wayne A. Aldredge and his associates at Holmdel Periodontics & Implant Dentistry are giving area women the chance to defy those odds by offering free periodontal screenings in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Screenings last 30 minutes and include a visual evaluation, x-rays, and recommendation for each patient.

Scientists have not confirmed exactly how periodontal disease increases the risk of breast cancer, only that it does. Periodontal disease is generally characterized by swollen, sensitive, bleeding or receding gums. The most likely connection are the bacteria, infection and inflammation found in affected gum tissue. All of these can spread throughout the body. In fact, microorganisms found in the mouth have been found in breast tumors. Researchers are certain that the spread of infection and inflammation can change how a cell grows and could contribute to how quickly cancer develops and spreads.

October reminds women to be aware of the risk of breast cancer, and to get the proper screenings, including mammograms, to help defeat the disease. Science tell us those precautions should now including a screening for periodontal disease. Free screenings are available at Holmdel Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in Holmdel. To schedule a free screening, call 732-671-7100.