Flossing Regularly Can Prevent Strokes and Irregular Heartbeats

A new study suggests that flossing not only benefits your gums but also helps protect your brain (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Flossing may reduce risk for stroke and irregular heart rhythm

Go to source). Researchers are set to report that flossing at least once a week reduces the risk of stroke caused by blood clots at the American Stroke Association meeting in Los Angeles.

Impact of Flossing on Clot-Related Strokes

Flossing is linked to a 22% reduced risk of stroke caused by clots, and a 44% decreased risk of strokes resulting from blood clots traveling from the heart, according to the findings.

Additionally, those who flossed had a 12% lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm that raises the likelihood of stroke.

Oral Health and Artery Hardening

"Oral health practices are connected to inflammation and the hardening of arteries," said Dr. Souvik Sen, the lead researcher and chair of neurology at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, in a news release.

"Flossing might lower stroke risk by reducing oral infections and inflammation, while also promoting other healthy habits," Sen added.

Flossing Habits

For the study, researchers examined data from a long-term investigation into the health risks associated with clogged arteries. Over 6,200 participants shared information on their flossing habits and frequency.

"A recent global health report showed that oral diseases, including untreated tooth decay and gum disease, impacted 3.5 billion people in 2022, making them the most common health conditions," Sen noted.

Over a 25-year follow-up period, 434 participants experienced a stroke, and nearly 1,300 developed atrial fibrillation.

The results showed that regular flossing reduced the risk of stroke, regardless of whether individuals brushed their teeth regularly or visited a dentist consistently.

Flossing was also linked to a reduced risk of cavities and gum disease.

"Many people have said that dental care can be expensive," Sen remarked. "Flossing is a simple, affordable, and widely accessible habit that promotes good health."

Researchers expressed surprise at the link between flossing and the reduced risk of atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat that increases stroke risk by allowing blood to pool and clot in the heart's upper chambers.

Dental Health Habits Could Be Part of ‘Life’s Essential 8’ Factors

“This study provides more understanding of the specific dental health habits that might be connected to stroke risks and potential risk reduction,” said Daniel Lackland, a professor of epidemiology at the Medical University of South Carolina, in a news release.

“With additional research, dental health practices could potentially be included in the 'Life's Essential 8' risk factors, which encompass diet, physical activity, nicotine use, sleep, body mass index, blood pressure, blood glucose, and blood lipids,” added Lackland, who was not part of the study.

In conclusion, this study highlights that flossing, a simple and affordable habit, not only protects oral health but also reduces the risk of stroke and atrial fibrillation. By lowering inflammation and promoting healthier arteries, flossing may become a key factor in improving overall health. With further research, it could even be included in essential health guidelines for preventing stroke and heart disease.

Reference:

1. Flossing may reduce risk for stroke and irregular heart rhythm - (https://www.stroke.org/en/news/2025/01/30/flossing-may-reduce-risk-for-stroke-and-irregular-heart-rhythm)

Source-Medindia