Washington: A new study suggests that bacteria responsible for gum disease may also increase a person’s risk of developing head and neck cancer.
Researchers found that more than a dozen types of bacteria were associated with a 50% higher risk of head and neck cancers.
Co-senior author Dr. Richard Hayes emphasized that these findings offer another compelling reason to maintain good oral hygiene habits.
He added that brushing and flossing your teeth not only helps prevent periodontal disease but may also protect against head and neck cancer.
The researchers noted that some of these bacteria contribute to severe gum infections that damage the soft tissues around the teeth and even affect the jawbone.
