This was known quite a while ago, didn't you competent? doctor prescribe this for you?
Regular dental flossing may reduce risk of stroke and irregular heartbeats, study finds
Flossing & heart health: New study links dental hygiene to lower stroke & AFib risk
A groundbreaking study presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference 2025 suggests that regular dental flossing may be crucial in reducing the risk of stroke caused by blood clots and irregular heartbeats, particularly atrial fibrillation (AFib). The research, part of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, analyzed data from over 6,000 participants and found compelling evidence linking oral hygiene to cardiovascular health.
Key Findings of the Study
1. Flossing at least once a week was associated with:
- 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke (caused by a blood clot blocking brain blood flow).
- 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke (blood clots traveling from the heart).
- 12% lower risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib).
2.
Flossing's protective effects were independent of regular brushing and
routine dental visits, indicating its unique role in oral and cardiovascular health.
Participants
who flossed more frequently showed a more significant reduction in
stroke risk, reinforcing the importance of this simple habit.
3. Flossing was also linked to a lower incidence of cavities and gum disease, further highlighting its overall health benefits.
Oral Health and Stroke Prevention: The Connection
The study, led by Dr. Souvik Sen, Chair of Neurology at Prisma Health Richland Hospital and the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, emphasizes that oral health behaviors directly influence inflammation and artery hardening, two significant factors contributing to strokes. Poor oral hygiene can lead to chronic gum disease, which has been linked to systemic inflammation and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
"A recent global health report found that oral diseases affect 3.5 billion people worldwide, among the most widespread health conditions. Our study aimed to determine which oral hygiene habits—flossing, brushing, or regular dental visits—impact stroke prevention most," said Dr. Sen.
The long-term study, which began in 1987, tracked participants for 25 years, assessing their oral hygiene habits and overall health outcomes. Among the 6,258 participants (82% white adults, 18% black adults, average age 62 years, 55% women), those who flossed regularly showed an apparent reduction in stroke and AFib risk.
Flossing: A Simple Yet Effective Preventive Measure
Dr. Sen noted that many people avoid dental care due to high costs. Still, flossing is an easy, accessible, and affordable habit that can significantly improve oral and heart health. "Flossing helps reduce oral infections and inflammation, which may in turn lower stroke risk," he explained.
Experts believe that with further research, dental hygiene practices could be added to "Life’s Essential 8"—a set of key lifestyle factors identified by the American Heart Association for cardiovascular disease prevention. These factors include diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, sleep, body mass index, blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipids.
Study Limitations and Future Research
Despite its promising findings, the study had some limitations. The data was based on self-reported flossing habits, and there was no follow-up on oral hygiene behaviors over the 25 years. Future studies must establish a causal relationship between flossing and reduced stroke risk.
Takeaway: Prioritize Oral Hygiene for Overall Health
This study reinforces the growing evidence that oral health is closely linked to cardiovascular well-being. Regular flossing, brushing, and dental check-ups may serve as an essential preventive strategy against strokes and heart conditions.
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