October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What Your Oral Health Has to Do With It

Each October, we wear pink to honor those impacted by breast cancer and to raise awareness about prevention and early detection. At River Run Dental, we believe wellness isn’t just about your smile — it’s about your whole body. That’s one of the reasons we offer free oral cancer screening at your first visit and recommend the screening annually.

Did you know that your oral health may be linked to your risk factors for breast cancer? Research has found a possible connection between gum disease (also called periodontal disease) and an increased risk of breast cancer. While scientists are still studying the details, this research reminds us of an important truth: taking care of your mouth is an important part of taking care of yourself.

What the Research Shows

• Women with signs of periodontal disease (such as missing molars from long-term gum problems) were found to have a higher rate of breast cancer compared to those without these signs.
• The connection was especially strong in women who currently smoke or who smoked in the past.
• Researchers believe this may be due to:
  • Inflammation in the gums spreading through the body.
  • Oral bacteria entering the bloodstream during brushing, flossing, or chewing.
  • How the body’s immune response to gum infection may influence other tissues.

⚠️ Important: Gum disease does not directly “cause” breast cancer. But it may be one of several risk factors to be mindful of when looking at your whole-body health.

What This Means for You

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, River Run Dental is reminding our patients that prevention and awareness go hand in hand. Just like mammograms and regular check-ups are essential for early detection, so are healthy daily habits and routine dental visits.

Here’s what you can do:

• Watch for gum health warning signs: Bleeding, swollen, or tender gums are not normal.
• Stay on top of visits: Routine cleanings and check-ups with our hygienists help us catch gum disease early.
• Prioritize daily habits: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and follow your dentist’s recommendations.
• Think big-picture health: If you smoke, consider quitting. Balanced nutrition, regular activity, and stress management all support both oral and systemic health.
• Keep your providers in the loop: Your River Run Dental team is here to partner with your medical providers to support your whole-body wellness.

Bottom Line

Breast cancer awareness is about more than just wearing pink — it’s about committing to prevention and self-care in every area of life. Research suggests that healthy gums may be one more way to support overall health.

At River Run Dental, our mission goes beyond creating beautiful smiles. We’re here to help you feel confident, healthy, and cared for — inside and out. So this October, as you remind a loved one to schedule their mammogram, remember to schedule your next cleaning too. Because caring for your smile is caring for your whole self.