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, which threaten the tissues and bones that support teeth. In advanced periodontal disease, gums recede away from the teeth, creating “pockets” that become infected. Eventually, teeth loosening or loss results. Research has already shown this common, but serious periodontal disease has also been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease, and many other chronic health issues. A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention on December 21, 2015 now indicates that periodontal disease may be connected to an increased risk of getting breast cancer in postmenopausal women, especially in those with a history of smoking.
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