Taking care of your teeth may do more than just keep your smile bright. A new study suggests that flossing regularly could lower the risk of certain types of strokes and an irregular heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation (AFib), which can increase stroke risk.
The research was presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference in Los Angeles. Scientists found that people who flossed at least once a week had a lower risk of strokes caused by blood clots that travel from the heart.
They also had a lower chance of developing AFib. These findings are still considered preliminary until they are published in a scientific journal.
Dr. Souvik Sen, the lead researcher and a professor at the University of South Carolina, explained that while flossing alone won’t prevent strokes, it may be a helpful addition to a healthy lifestyle.
Previous research has already shown that poor oral health can contribute to damage in the brain’s small blood vessels and increase plaque buildup in arteries.
How the Study Was Conducted
The study included 6,278 people who answered questions about their flossing habits. About 65% of them reported flossing at least once a week. The participants were followed for 25 years to track whether they developed AFib or had an ischemic stroke—a type of stroke that happens when a blood vessel to the brain becomes blocked.
The researchers also looked at three specific types of ischemic stroke:
- Cardioembolic stroke – Caused by a blood clot traveling from the heart to the brain.
- Thrombotic stroke – Caused by a clot in a large artery in the brain.
- Lacunar stroke – Caused by a blockage in the small arteries deep in the brain.
The results showed that compared to those who did not floss, people who flossed at least once a week had:
- A 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke
- A 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke
- A 12% lower risk of developing AFib
Interestingly, there was no clear connection between flossing and the risk of thrombotic or lacunar strokes.
Why Might Flossing Help?
Flossing removes food particles and bacteria from between the teeth, reducing the risk of gum disease and oral infections.
Dr. Sen explained that inflammation from oral infections can contribute to stroke risk. By preventing gum disease, flossing may also help reduce overall inflammation in the body, which could protect the brain and heart.
Dr. Karen Furie, a neurologist at Brown University, was not involved in the study but found the results interesting. She noted that flossing helps remove tiny food particles that brushing alone may miss.
If left behind, these particles can cause gum inflammation and may contribute to overall inflammation in the body, which could harm blood vessels.
However, she was surprised that flossing was not linked to a lower risk of thrombotic strokes, since these strokes are often associated with inflammation and artery blockage.
One possible explanation is that people at risk for thrombotic strokes may receive more medical attention for their arteries, reducing their stroke risk through other treatments.
Other Factors at Play
Dr. Furie also pointed out that people who floss regularly may be more likely to take care of their health in general.
The study found that 65% of participants flossed weekly, while 35% did not. Those who flossed may also be more likely to follow medical advice, eat healthier, and maintain other good habits that lower stroke risk.
While flossing is one possible way to reduce stroke risk, experts still recommend other key steps for a healthy heart and brain. Managing blood pressure and cholesterol, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep all play a crucial role.
Final Thoughts
This study highlights the importance of oral hygiene in overall health. Many people do not think about how gum disease and inflammation could affect their heart and brain, but these findings suggest that maintaining good dental health may have wider benefits.
Although flossing alone won’t prevent strokes, it may be a simple and easy way to support heart and brain health. More research is needed to confirm these findings, but this study serves as a reminder that taking care of your teeth is not just about preventing cavities—it could be an important part of protecting your overall health.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about top foods to love for a stronger heart, and why oranges may help fight obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
For more health information, please see recent studies about simple guide to a 7-day diabetes meal plan, and why you should add black beans to your plate.
The research findings were presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference in Los Angeles.
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