A new study has revealed that skipping even one daily tooth brushing session may increase the risk of developing head and neck cancers. While NHS guidelines recommend brushing twice daily to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease, this research strengthens the case for maintaining strict oral hygiene, showing it could reduce the risk of cancer by up to 50%.
Conducted in the US, the study identified 13 types of oral bacteria that were associated with a significant increase in cancer risk. These bacteria are linked to periodontal disease, a severe gum condition that affects the jawbone and surrounding tissues. Although previous research had connected oral bacteria to cancers, this study is the first to pinpoint the specific bacteria involved.
Lead author Soyoung Kwak highlighted the importance of the findings: “Our research provides new insight into the link between the oral microbiome and head and neck cancers. These bacteria may serve as biomarkers, helping experts identify individuals at higher risk.”
Published in JAMA Oncology, the study reviewed data from 159,840 Americans across three long-term studies. Participants provided saliva samples for analysis, which enabled researchers to track the presence of bacteria and fungi in their mouths. After over a decade of monitoring, 236 participants were diagnosed with head and neck cancers. Researchers found a direct correlation between the presence of 13 specific bacterial species, such as Prevotella salivae, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Leptotrichia, and increased cancer risk.
Professor Richard Hayes of NYU’s Grossman School of Medicine, who was also involved in the research, emphasized the importance of the findings: “This study gives us another reason to maintain good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing might not just prevent gum disease but could potentially guard against head and neck cancers.”
The NHS advises brushing for two minutes, ensuring that all surfaces of the teeth are cleaned thoroughly. In addition, they recommend avoiding immediate rinsing after brushing to retain the protective fluoride concentration from toothpaste.
Head and neck cancers are the eighth most common form of cancer in the UK, with 12,800 new cases and around 4,100 deaths annually, according to Cancer Research UK.
With this new research underscoring the importance of oral health, adhering to daily dental routines may be critical not only for preventing gum disease but also for reducing cancer risks.
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