A new study finds flossing at least once a week may decrease the risk of stroke independent of your other oral hygiene habits like brushing.
Flossing your teeth on a regular basis may lower your risk of stroke from a blood clot or an irregular heartbeat.
Researchers found flossing at least once a week decreases the risk of stroke regardless of your brushing habits.
They reviewed data from an ongoing heart study that included more than 6,000 adults who reported on their blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol status, as well as their body mass index, brushing habits and dentist visits.
The results showed people who flossed had a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke caused by a clot blocking blood flow to the brain, 44% lower risk of stroke caused by a clot traveling from the heart and a 12% lower risk of atrial fibrillation or an irregular heartbeat, which the researchers called surprising.
The benefit was independent of regular brushing and routine dental visits.
The lead author says, “Flossing may reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation and encouraging other healthy habits.”
The study also tied flossing to a lower chance of cavities and periodontal disease.
Sources: American Stroke Association International Stroke Conference, American Heart Association
Author Affiliations: University of South Carolina School of Medicine ,UNC Adams School of Dentistry
Copyright © 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Leave a Reply