Dentists and breast cancer

Oral health and breast cancer

September 6, 2016

In 2016, approximately 5,820 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in Washington State.

Take a look at this infographic:

Gum disease is linked to many systemic illnesses. While the relationship of the connection is unclear, research suggests women with gum disease have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Your dentist is your first line of defense against gum disease. Sometimes, breast cancer causes oral health symptoms before it's diagnosed. Your dentist can spot those, too. Maintain a good oral health routine and stay on top of your regular dental visits help decrease your risk.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, be sure to visit your dentist. Many breast cancer treatments cause oral health problems. They can help treat them and minimize any oral pain or discomfort.

Talk to your dentist if you want to learn more about the connection between gum disease and breast cancer or how they can help during your breast cancer treatments.

Need a dentist? Use our Find a dentist tool to search for one near you.