Dental Plaque Can Trigger Cancer

Dental Plaque Can Trigger Cancer

Poor oral hygiene has increased the risk of cancer. According to research in Sweden, a growing number of dental plaque associated with the risk of early death from cancer up to 13 years sooner.

The findings, published in the online journal BMJ Open 1390 people examined. All participants were asked about the possibility of an increased cancer risk, including smoking habits and oral hygiene, such as dental plaque, tartar and gum disease and tooth.

After 24 years later, the researchers found an association between high levels of bacteria in dental plaque or the risk of cancer. From the initial number of participants, about 58 people died of which 35 of them died of cancer.

Researchers explain the role of infection and inflammation risk of developing one of the five types of cancer. Those who died have higher plaque levels than those who are healthy.

Those who died had a value of 0.84 to 0.91 plaque which shows that the surface of the gums and teeth had been covered with plaques. While the value of plaque on the living is lower, only ranged from 0.66 to 0.67 which is only partially covered teeth and gums plaque.

"Based on these findings, a high level of bacteria on the tooth surface for a long time does play a role as carcinogenesis. Study confirms that poor dental hygiene associated with increased risk of death from cancer," said researcher quoted by The Telegraph