Practicing good oral hygiene is very important for many reasons. Research has recently shown that good oral hygiene goes beyond fighting off cavities. It also lessens your risk of cancer. Research has found that people with low levels of dental plaque were 80 percent less likely to die of cancer than those with high plaque levels. Plaque bacteria triggers body-wide inflammation, which can raise the risk of cancer. Seeing your dentist regularly can help keep plaque at bay, along with good flossing and brushing. -Lisa B