New study links oral hygiene to cancer risk: 10 tips to protect your oral health
Professionals from AIIMS urge a shift in focus: from daily brushing to broader public health efforts like school-based dental care and stricter sugar marketing regulations. As cancer rates rise in Southeast Asia, maintaining good oral health could be a simple yet powerful tool for prevention and survival.
What the study says: Link between
oral hygiene and cancer
outcomes
In a commentary published in The
Lancet Regional Health
, Southeast Asia, AIIMS oncologists
Dr Abhishek Shankar
and Dr Vaibhav Sahni discussed the rising body of evidence linking oral bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia with higher cancer incidence and poorer survival outcomes.
The researchers noted that routine dental checkups are associated with reduced cancer mortality, underlining that oral hygiene should be integrated into standard oncology care. With the cancer burden increasing in Southeast Asia and preventative care often neglected, they stress the urgent need for structured public health programmes that prioritise oral health.
Some of the interventions they proposed include
School-based toothbrushing programmes
Oral rinse-based point-of-care testing for gum disease detection
Distribution of free toothbrushes and toothpaste
Health warnings on high-sugar food packaging
Incentives for educators and families to promote oral care
Dr Shankar noted that 'oral healthcare plays a significant role in enhancing health-related outcomes, including those related to cancer survivorship.'
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His colleague, Dr Sahni, also warned against the marketing of sugary foods using cartoon characters, calling for region-specific research to better inform prevention strategies.
10 Tips to maintain your oral hygiene
Brush your teeth twice a day
Brushing your teeth in the morning and before bed is crucial. Night brushing removes plaque, food debris, and bacteria that build up during the day, reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Use proper brushing technique
A rushed brushing job can leave plaque behind.
Use a soft-bristled brush in gentle, circular motions for at least two minutes. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can erode enamel and damage gums.
Don't forget your tongue
Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue, contributing to bad breath and oral health problems. Gently brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth helps keep your whole mouth clean.
Choose fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride is essential for strengthening tooth enamel and protecting against decay.
Always choose a fluoride toothpaste, regardless of the brand or flavour.
Floss daily
Flossing helps clean areas your toothbrush can't reach between the teeth and under the gumline. Daily flossing reduces plaque buildup and lowers your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Rinse with a mouthwash
A fluoride-based mouthwash can further protect your teeth and freshen your breath. Use it at a different time of day than brushing, such as after meals, to avoid rinsing away fluoride from toothpaste.
Drink plenty of water
Water, especially if fluoridated, helps rinse away food particles and maintain saliva flow, which is vital for neutralising harmful acids in the mouth.
Limit sugary and acidic foods
Frequent consumption of sugar and acidic drinks like sodas, tea, and citrus can erode enamel. Try to reduce their intake and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.
Schedule regular dental checkups
Visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. Dentists can detect early signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues before they become serious.
Maintain a complete oral care routine
Good oral health involves consistent habits. Brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, and regular dentist visits form the foundation of long-term dental wellness.
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