YOU wouldn't think brushing your teeth wrong could end up costing you your life. But new research reveals that rushing in the morning and neglecting your gnashers could raise the risk of head and neck cancer . 2 Good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing can reduce your risk of cancer Credit: Getty Doctors have long known that nasty bacteria from gum disease can increase the risk of conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Until now, experts weren't sure which specific bacteria in the mouth were linked to cancer. US scientists have now discovered over a dozen types of bacteria in the mouth that could boost the risk of the disease by 50 per cent. They argue their findings highlight the importance of good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and regular dentist visits.
Read more on oral health HEAD UP Check your risk of head and neck cancer with a simple 60-second mirror test HEALTH CHECK The cancer sign you can spot when you breathe - 5 other symptoms to know But more than a third of British adults claim to never floss, according to a previous survey. Study author Professor Richard Hayes, from New York University (NYU) said: "Our results offer yet another reason to keep up good oral hygiene habits. "Brushing your teeth and flossing may not only help prevent periodontal disease but also may protect against head and neck cancer.
" There are around 13,000 new cases of head and neck cancer every yea.