New Research Highlights Connection Between Oral Hygiene and Cardiovascular Health
USA: A new study to be presented at the International Stroke Conference 2025 has identified a significant association between regular dental flossing and decreased stroke risk. According to research from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, flossing at least once weekly correlates with lower risks of strokes caused by blood clots and irregular heartbeats.
Global Context of Oral Health Challenges
Study lead author Souvik Sen from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine highlighted the widespread nature of oral health issues: “A recent global health report revealed that oral diseases – such as untreated tooth decay and gum disease – affected 3.5 billion people in 2022, making them the most widespread health conditions.”
The research team conducted a comprehensive analysis involving over 6,000 participants, utilizing structured questionnaires to assess dental flossing habits. Among the participants who reported regular flossing, 4,092 had no history of stroke, and 4,050 had not been diagnosed with irregular heartbeat conditions.
Statistical Impact on Stroke Risk
The 25-year follow-up study revealed several significant findings:
- A 22 percent reduction in ischemic stroke risk among regular flossers
- A 44 percent lower risk of blood clots traveling from the heart
- A 12 percent decreased risk of irregular heartbeats
During the study period, researchers documented 434 stroke cases, with 147 resulting from larger artery brain clots, 97 from heart-driven clots, and 95 from small artery hardening.
Dr. Sen emphasized the practical implications of these findings: “Many people have expressed that dental care is costly. Flossing is a healthy habit that is easy to adopt, affordable and accessible everywhere.” He further explained the potential mechanisms at work: “Oral health behaviours are linked to inflammation and artery hardening. Flossing may reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation and encouraging other healthy habits.”
Research Implications
The study’s findings suggest that the relationship between flossing and reduced stroke risk exists independently of other oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and routine dental visits. The research indicates that increased flossing frequency may correlate with greater stroke risk reduction, offering a simple yet effective approach to cardiovascular health maintenance.
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