Health experts are highlighting the importance of daily oral hygiene as oral cancer rates continue to rise across the United States, with research suggesting that consistent dental care may help reduce risk and improve early detection.
The American Cancer Society estimates that about 60,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year. The disease, which affects the tongue, gums, tonsils, mouth and throat, has shown a steady increase over the past two decades.
While oral cancer cannot always be prevented, dental professionals say strong oral hygiene practices may play a meaningful role in reducing risk factors linked to the disease.
“Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is one of the best preventive steps people can take,” said Lilya Horowitz, D.D.S., AAACD. She pointed to basic habits such as brushing twice daily, flossing every day and attending routine dental checkups.
Experts explain that these practices help control plaque buildup, reduce inflammation and limit the progression of gum disease, all of which are associated with long-term damage to oral tissues.
“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 periodontal disease can develop into periodontitis, a severe infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Studies suggest that bacteria linked to gum disease may contribute to inflammatory processes and DNA damage associated with oral cancer development.
Dental experts also emphasize the role of the oral microbiome—the diverse community of bacteria living in the mouth—in overall oral health.
“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 especially important, experts note, because toothbrushes cannot adequately clean between teeth, where plaque tends to accumulate. Research indicates that regular flossing may help maintain a healthier and more balanced oral microbiome.
Routine dental visits are also considered essential for prevention and early detection. During checkups, dentists examine not only teeth but also soft tissues for early warning signs such as sores, lumps or discoloration that could indicate oral cancer.
“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 that most adults visit a dentist once or twice a year, although individuals with higher risk factors may require more frequent care.
Alongside oral hygiene, experts recommend several lifestyle measures to help reduce oral cancer risk, including avoiding tobacco products such as vaping, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, protecting lips from ultraviolet exposure, and receiving the HPV vaccine when eligible.
Health professionals stress that no single approach can fully prevent oral cancer. However, they emphasize that combining consistent oral hygiene with healthy lifestyle choices may significantly reduce risk and improve the likelihood of early detection.
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