The Link Between Gum Disease and Breast Cancer, Especially in Smokers
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gums that affects half of Americans over 30. Gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease, is marked by swollen and bleeding gums. If not addressed, gingivitis can advance to more severe stages of periodontal disease, affecting the tissues and bones that support teeth. In advanced periodontal disease, gums recede away from the teeth, creating “pockets” that become infected. Eventually, it can cause teeth loosening or complete loss of the tooth.
The Impact of Gum Health on Overall Health
Research has already shown that this common periodontal disease has also been linked to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and many other chronic health issues. Moreover, studies have correlated periodontal disease to higher risk of breast cancer.
The Correlation Between Gum Disease and Cancer
A study published in 2015 in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention suggests that gum disease may be linked to a higher chance of getting breast cancer in women after menopause.
The researchers followed 73,737 postmenoposal women, where about 26% of these women said they had gum disease. In a follow-up after 6.7 years, 2,214 of them were diagnosed with breast cancer. Women with gum disease were 14% more likely to get breast cancer than those without it.
The researchers also looked at smoking, which has already been shown to increase cancer risk. So the researchers divided the women into groups based on their smoking habits and the results were as follows:
- Women with gum disease who had quit smoking in the last 20 years had a 36% higher chance of getting breast cancer.
- Those who were still smoking had a 32% higher risk.
- Women who quit smoking more than 20 years ago had an 8% higher risk.
- Those who never smoked had a 6% increased risk.
There are a few possible reasons for the link between gum disease and breast cancer, according to the researchers:
- Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream when you brush, floss, or chew. Although the body quickly gets rid of these bacteria, they still affect tissues over time. These bacteria might have an impact on breast cancer.
- They also suggested that inflammation in one part of the body could affect other diseases, including breast cancer.
- Another possibility is that certain factors may increase the risk of both gum disease and breast cancer at the same time.
Although the study was large and well organized, the researchers couldn’t conclude that avoiding gum disease will put breast cancer at bay. Yet, the recommendations are to do all you can do to stay away from any risk factors causing breast cancer. These include maintaining a healthy diet, normal weight, exercising, avoiding alcohol and quitting smoking.
To keep your gums healthy, make sure to brush twice a day and floss once a day. Also, visit your dentist for check-ups twice a year, or more often if you have any of these symptoms:
- Bleeding gums
- Receding gums (gums that have pulled away from the teeth)
- Bad breath that doesn’t go away
- Swollen gums
- Loose teeth
Conclusion
While the connection between gum disease and breast cancer, especially in smokers, is still being researched, it’s clear that maintaining good gum health is essential for overall well-being. By taking simple steps like brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups, you not only protect your smile but may also reduce your risk of other serious health issues. Prioritizing your oral health is a small, yet powerful way to support your body and potentially lower the chances of conditions like breast cancer.
Check out GLO’s Gingermint Pods, infused with natural cold-pressed ginger oil that keeps your gums in check while working on a brighter smile.
