Dentists have long recommended brushing and flossing daily to prevent tooth decay. But there may be an even more pressing reason to clean up your oral health: it may help prevent the development of certain cancers.
Researchers at Harvard's T. H. Chan School of Public Health reviewed two extensive studies of more than 150,000 men and women. Following up after 22–28 years, they found those who had gum disease were 43 percent more likely to be diagnosed with esophageal cancer and 52 percent more likely to develop stomach cancer.1
More studies are needed to confirm the link between gum disease and cancer, but it certainly makes sense. The mouth is the start of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and oral health issues can trickle down into other areas if left untreated.
For instance, if you have old dental amalgam fillings, chances are they contain mercury. Many integrative doctors and biological dentists believe this dangerous metal may be released in tiny particles each time you chew or brush your
