Dentist Reveals Hidden Infections in Cancer Patient’s X-Ray

A video featuring the oral X-ray of a breast cancer patient has gained significant attention online, amassing nearly 5 million views on TikTok. Dr. Michelle Jorgensen, a dentist and board-certified holistic health practitioner based in Utah, shared the scan of Melissa Jacobsen, which revealed two infected root canals that were subsequently extracted.

Dr. Jorgensen emphasized the connection between oral health and overall well-being, stating, “Infected teeth don’t cause cancer—but they can make it much harder for your body to fight it.” She lamented that many individuals fail to recognize the link between oral infections and their broader health issues, asserting that the mouth serves as a critical entry point for systemic health.

A study conducted by researchers at Sichuan University supports Dr. Jorgensen’s claims, revealing a profound relationship between oral health and various long-term illnesses. Jacobsen, a 43-year-old mother of six, learned of her diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), the most common form of breast cancer, after a routine blood test indicated signs of infection in her bloodstream. The American Cancer Society notes that approximately 80 percent of breast cancer cases are IDC.

Following her diagnosis, Jacobsen’s naturopathic doctor recommended a dental evaluation. Advanced imaging subsequently revealed that both of her root-canal-treated teeth were abscessed, presenting “large black pockets” of infection beneath the surface. The extraction took place on October 13, 2023, and post-procedure, the oral surgeon remarked it was fortunate they removed the teeth, as the infection was more extensive than initially indicated. Jacobsen noted, “My body has responded well to having the teeth removed; truly, I think it was grateful to get them out.”

Understanding the Impact of Oral Infections

Prior to her diagnosis, Jacobsen experienced a subtle “puffy” feeling in the gum beneath one of her root canals, which she attributed to teeth grinding and inflammation. Dr. Jorgensen explained that many people are unaware of infections in their mouths. After a root canal procedure, the nerve in the tooth is removed, eliminating pain signals that could indicate a problem. “The tooth may look fine, but underneath, it can be harboring bacteria and toxins that quietly leak into the bloodstream,” she said.

Dr. Richard Miller-White, a dentist from the United Kingdom with over 30 years of experience, provided further insight. He explained that cancer patients are particularly vulnerable to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, noting that the risk of infections increases with more advanced cancer stages and the intensity of treatment. “Oral infections don’t normally shut down the immune system but can compromise it,” Miller-White said. He highlighted that a chronic dental abscess can continually strain the immune system, reducing its capacity to combat other diseases.

Miller-White also pointed out that inflammation in the mouth can lead to inflammation throughout the body. For example, gum disease allows bacteria and inflammatory chemicals to enter the bloodstream, potentially exacerbating existing health issues. He stressed the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, practicing good oral hygiene, ensuring proper sleep, and receiving regular dental care to minimize infections and support immune function.

The intersection of dental health and systemic health is becoming increasingly recognized, and Jacobsen’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the role that oral infections can play in overall health. As more patients like Jacobsen share their stories, the call for greater awareness and integration of dental evaluations in healthcare continues to grow.