Oral health is more than brushing teeth. It is now recognised as a modifiable factor in the risk of oral and oropharyngeal cancers. Chronic irritation from sharp or broken teeth and ill-fitting dentures can cause non-healing ulcers that may lead to abnormal cell changes over time. An imbalanced oral microbiome can also create a harmful, inflamed environment, and new genomic profiling of oral bacteria is helping assess risk earlier. A diet rich in antioxidants, green tea, turmeric, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics supports oral health, while avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol remains the most effective protection. Any mouth ulcer, white spot or red patch lasting more than two to three weeks should be examined by a specialist.
