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New Research Highlights the Role of Dental Flossing in Stroke Prevention
A groundbreaking study has found that regular dental flossing is associated with a lower risk of ischemic stroke, likely due to its role in reducing systemic inflammation. This inflammation can lead to atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition that increases the likelihood of a cardioembolic stroke. The findings were presented at the International Stroke Conference (ISC) 2025 by Dr. Souvik Sen, professor and chair of the Department of Neurology at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia.
A Preventative Health Measure
The study demonstrated that flossing’s benefits extend beyond general oral hygiene, independent of regular brushing and dental visits. “We knew that flossing regularly will lower the body’s level of inflammation and oral infection, but now we know it will reduce the rate of stroke, atrial fibrillation, and cardioembolic stroke,” said Dr. Sen. He emphasized that flossing is an affordable and accessible preventive measure, particularly beneficial in rural areas where dental care access is limited.
Study Insights
The research analyzed data from 6,278 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, a long-term study initiated in 1987. The participants, with an average age of 62 and no prior history of stroke or AF, provided self-reported data on their oral hygiene habits. Regular flossing was defined as flossing at least once a week, while regular dental care was classified as an annual dental visit.
Participants were divided into two groups: flossers (n=4,092) and nonflossers (n=2,186). Flossers generally had fewer cardiovascular risk factors, including lower incidences of hypertension (31.5% vs. 36.3%) and diabetes (11.7% vs. 16.1%). They also exhibited better overall oral health and higher high-density lipoprotein levels.
Significant Findings
Over a follow-up period exceeding 25 years, 434 strokes were reported. These included 146 thrombotic strokes, 102 cardioembolic strokes, and 95 lacunar strokes. Adjusted analyses indicated that flossing was significantly associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.79; 95% CI, 0.64-0.97), cardioembolic stroke (adjusted HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.36-0.86), and AF (adjusted HR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.78-1.00).
Dr. Sen noted that the reduction in stroke risk was primarily driven by fewer cardioembolic strokes, potentially due to a lower incidence of AF. “That’s a big finding because atrial fibrillation is increasing, and more strokes are resulting from it. We need to focus on prevention strategies for AF, as it leads to severe and debilitating strokes,” he explained.
Beyond Brushing: The Additional Impact of Flossing
The study underscored that flossing offers unique benefits beyond those of brushing and routine dental visits. Flossing effectively removes food particles and plaque, reducing gum disease and inflammation, which are known contributors to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular conditions.
Commenting on the study, Dr. Daniel T. Lackland of the American Heart Association highlighted that the research adds to the growing body of evidence linking oral health to cardiovascular disease. “Perhaps dental flossing is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease,” he said, emphasizing the study’s potential impact on public health recommendations.
Funding and Disclosures
The ARIC study was funded by the National Institutes of Health. Both Dr. Sen and Dr. Lackland reported no relevant conflicts of interest.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individuals should consult their healthcare providers before making changes to their health routines.
