Maintaining strong oral hygiene habits may play an important role in reducing the risk of oral cancer, health experts say, as rates of the disease continue to climb across the United States.
According to the American Cancer Society, roughly 60,000 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, with cases steadily increasing over the past two decades. Oral cancer can affect the tongue, gums, tonsils, mouth and throat.
Dental professionals say that while oral cancer cannot always be prevented, consistent oral care may help reduce risk and support early detection.
“Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is one of the best preventive steps people can take,” said Lilya Horowitz, D.D.S., AAACD, noting that this includes brushing twice daily, flossing every day and attending regular dental appointments.
Experts explain that oral hygiene helps by limiting plaque buildup, reducing inflammation and preventing gum disease, all of which can contribute to long-term tissue damage in the mouth.
“When harmful bacteria and plaque accumulate, they create chronic inflammation that can damage oral tissues over time,” said Roumiana Tzvetkova, D.D.S., D.M.D. “Reducing that buildup helps maintain a healthier oral environment and may lower the risk of serious conditions, including oral cancer.”
Untreated gum disease can progress into periodontitis, a severe infection that damages the tissues and bones supporting the teeth. Research suggests the bacteria involved in gum disease may contribute to DNA damage and inflammatory responses linked to oral cancer development.
Dental experts also point to the mouth’s microbiome—the community of bacteria naturally living in the mouth—as another reason hygiene matters.
“The mouth is a living ecosystem,” said Arthur Glosman, D.D.S. “When harmful bacteria dominate, chronic inflammation can make it easier for abnormal cells to develop.”
Flossing is particularly important because toothbrushes cannot effectively clean between teeth, where plaque and inflammation often begin, experts say. Studies have shown daily flossing may promote a healthier and more diverse oral microbiome.
Routine dental visits also remain critical for prevention and early diagnosis. Dentists do more than clean teeth during checkups—they also screen for suspicious sores, lumps, discoloration and other abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer in its early stages.
“I am not just looking at teeth,” Glosman said. “During every exam, I carefully evaluate all of the soft tissues in the mouth.”
The American Dental Association recommends most adults visit the dentist once or twice per year, though some may need more frequent exams depending on their oral health.
In addition to oral hygiene, experts recommend several lifestyle measures to reduce oral cancer risk:
- Avoid tobacco products, including vaping, which can damage DNA in oral cells.
- Limit alcohol consumption, particularly when combined with tobacco use.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support immune health.
- Protect lips from ultraviolet exposure with SPF and wide-brimmed hats.
- Receive the HPV vaccine when eligible, as HPV is linked to a growing share of oral cancer cases.
Health experts emphasize that while no single strategy guarantees prevention, a combination of good oral care and healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of oral cancer and improve the chances of early detection.
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