October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month And Dental Hygiene Month

During October, which is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness month, many people also work to raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the breasts. This form of cancer usually starts in the inner lining of milk ducts or the lobules that supply the ducts with milk. However, it can spread to other areas of the body as well.

There are two main types of breast cancer: invasive and non-invasive. Invasive means that the cancerous cells have broken through the tissue walls that keep them contained inside the breast and spread to nearby tissues or organs. Non-invasive means that the cancer cells haven’t spread beyond the breast itself.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s a good time to discuss some of the risk factors. You may have an increased chance of developing breast cancer if you:

- Are a woman between the ages of 20 and 59.

- Have a personal history of breast cancer in your family.

- Have undergone radiation therapy to the chest area in the past.

- Have had chest radiation treatment after the age of 30.

- Have been diagnosed with precancerous cells known as atypical hyperplasia.

- Have started menopause at an older age.

- Have a genetic mutation called BRACA1 which greatly increases the risk.

- Experienced early onset of menstruation at a younger age than normal.

- Have never been pregnant.

- Are overweight and live an inactive lifestyle.

- Use oral contraceptives.

- Smoke cigarettes.

- Drink alcohol in excess.

Although some of these factors cannot be changed, others can. For instance, if you’re a smoker and have been for years, it’s best that you quit as soon as possible. Talk to your dentist for more tips on how to quit smoking and kick the habit. You may benefit from the use of smoking cessation products as well as professional support

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Cancers of the breast can be discovered by self-exam, routine screening exams, or symptoms and signs the patient may experience. Many patients with cancer of the breast have no symptoms at all, which makes early detection even more important. Diagnosing cancer can take time, and multiple tests will likely be performed to arrive at the proper diagnosis.

Mammograms are the most common imaging test used to diagnose breast cancer. The cancerous cells are spread throughout the breast tissue, so it is important to perform the test on the entire breast area to rule out tumors that may have been missed in the initial exam. Digital mammography uses X-rays to produce images of the breast from multiple angles. A traditional mammogram requires a physical compression of the breast to achieve the best images.

Ultrasound is another method of imaging that is used to examine the tissue in the breasts. It provides high-resolution images of the breast to determine if a mass is present. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a more advanced method of imaging that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of breast tissues in a non-invasive manner. MRIs are often recommended when a lump is found in the breast but cannot be felt during a clinical exam.

When a patient has an abnormal finding on a mammogram or other breast image, a biopsy may also be done to determine if the abnormality is malignant or benign. A biopsy removes cells from the tumor so it can be evaluated under a microscope to determine the exact type of cancer present. If the mass is found to be cancerous, other tests may be ordered to determine the stage the cancer is currently in and to further determine the best course of treatment.

Dental Hygiene Month

October is also known as dental hygiene month. It is important to brush and floss your teeth twice a day, use mouthwash, have a balanced diet, and stay hydrated. Visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings is also a best practice for your oral health. During this time, your dentist will be able to spot signs of gum disease like inflamed or bleeding gums. These symptoms typically occur due to plaque buildup around the the root of the tooth. Your dentist can also see signs of bone loss in x-rays.

Call us at 773-880-2310 or email us at office@sheffieldsquaredental.com to schedule your appointment. Visit Sheffield Square Dental Care at 2835 N. Sheffield Ave, Suite 305, Chicago, IL 60657.