In October, the focus is on breast cancer. Many people don’t realize that one of the complications of breast cancer is poor oral health. Medications cause less saliva to be produced. Hormone deficiencies reduce the strength of bones in the jaw, which hold teeth in place. Taking care of your teeth is important to your overall well being. After you make your appointment for your annual mammogram, make plans to take care of your smile. An appointment with a prosthodontist in Jacksonville, FL leads to better oral health.

Postmenopausal Risk Factors in Oral Health

Estrogen deficiency is most commonly associated with a lack of sexual desire, but it also plays an important role in bone density and health. Thus, an estrogen deficiency increases the risk of tooth loss and periodontal disease in postmenopausal women. There is a strong correlation between oral health and the level of estrogen in a woman’s body. Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammation, which can make it difficult for your body to fully heal.

Breast Cancer Treatment

In the 2014 Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health, it was identified that many women suffer oral infections and inflammation as a consequence of chemotherapy. In addition, it might be painful to brush or floss, which makes maintaining oral hygiene difficult. Salivary gland dysfunction is another complication, which leads to poor oral health. Although a breast cancer survivor may be overwhelmed with all of the other healthcare treatments needed, the care of a prosthodontist in Jacksonville, FL is vital to her (or his) wellbeing and health.

Take Care of Your Health Today

To maintain your smile, make an appointment with Dr. William Gielincki, a prosthodontist in Jacksonville, FL. Just call (904) 688-5275 to find solutions for your oral health issues. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer or not, it’s important to monitor your teeth and mouth throughout every stage in your life.