Regular flossing at least once a week is linked to reduced risk of ischemic and cardioembolic strokes, as well as atrial fibrillation, according to new research by Dr. Souvik Sen and his team at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine. The findings, which are set to be showcased at the American Stroke Association’s prestigious International Stroke Conference from February 5-7, 2025, elucidate how oral hygiene habits can potentially safeguard against serious cardiovascular events.
The study examined the dental habits of over 6,278 participants who provided information on their flossing frequency, dental check-ups, brushing routine, and various health indicators over the past 25 years. The association was compelling: those who maintained regular flossing reported significant reductions in stroke risk.
Specifically, the data revealed participants who flossed at least once weekly showed:
- a 22% lower risk of ischemic strokes, where blood flow to the brain gets blocked;
- a stunning 44% lower risk of cardioembolic strokes, primarily driven by blood clots emanated from the heart;
- a 12% reduction in instances of atrial fibrillation (AFib), which is noted to heighten the risk of strokes.
Over the 25-year follow-up period, 434 participants experienced strokes, with the research team particularly surprised by the pronounced relationship between flossing and lower rates of AFib. Dr. Sen notes, “Oral health behaviors are linked to inflammation and artery hardening. Flossing may reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation and encouraging other healthy habits.”
This correlation raises important public health concerns, especially considering oral diseases such as untreated cavities and gum disease affect over 3.5 billion people globally, underscoring the extent of potential barriers to health. Dr. Daniel Lackland, another respected figure with the Medical University of South Carolina who commented on the findings, suggested, “This study offers more insights... With future research, dental health practices could possibly be incorporated as part of ‘Life's Essential 8’ risk factors for stroke and cardiovascular health.”
The 'Life's Essential 8' factors currently encompass key health metrics including diet, physical activity, and blood pressure, signaling the importance of broadening health conversations to include daily habits such as flossing. This is particularly relevant as we learn more about the links between seemingly routine oral health behaviors and significant cardiovascular risks.
Critics of the study caution against overstressing the significance of flossing as the sole solution for preventing strokes—highlighting the inherent limitations of the self-reported data collected through questionnaires, and the absence of longitudinal tracking of flossing frequency over the extensive follow-up period. Participants averaged 62 years of age, with 82% identifying as white and 18% as Black, shaping the demographic details of this research.
Nevertheless, the study reaffirms existing knowledge on the health benefits of flossing, emphasizing its accessibility and affordability as fundamental advantages. Dr. Sen advocates for flossing as “a healthy habit that's easy to adopt, affordable, and accessible everywhere.” This statement echoes sentiments shared by many individuals who associate high dental care costs with barriers to maintaining optimal oral health.
Given the gravity of stroke as one of the leading causes of severe long-term disability and death, the findings of this research can serve as straightforward recommendations for public health initiatives seeking to lower such risks. Emphasizing oral health could inspire more frequent flossing and hence provoke discussions on improving comprehensive health strategies.
With future research on dental hygiene patterns likely to reveal even more insights, the medical community is encouraged to keep the dialogue active and iterative. This transformative moment can be pivotal for integrating flossing as part of preventive health measures, thereby reinforcing the role of oral health within the larger framework of chronic disease prevention.