Weekly Dental Flossing Linked to Lower Stroke and Heart Rhythm Risks, Study Finds

A recent study presented at the American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference suggests that regular dental flossing could play a crucial role in reducing stroke and atrial fibrillation risks. Researchers from the University of South Carolina found that individuals who floss at least once per week may experience a notable decrease in cardiovascular health complications.

The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study examined over 6,000 participants, tracking their oral hygiene habits and subsequent health outcomes over 25 years. The findings revealed significant potential health benefits associated with consistent dental flossing, independent of other oral hygiene practices.

Key research findings indicate that regular flossing was associated with a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke, a 44% reduction in cardioembolic stroke risk, and a 12% decreased likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation. These results suggest that oral health behaviors may have broader implications for cardiovascular wellness than previously understood.

Study lead author Dr. Souvik Sen emphasized that oral health behaviors are linked to inflammation and artery hardening. Flossing may help reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation, potentially encouraging additional healthy lifestyle choices.

The research is particularly timely, given that oral diseases affected 3.5 billion people globally in 2022. With projections indicating that over 12 million people in the United States may experience atrial fibrillation by 2030, understanding preventative measures becomes increasingly important.

Researchers noted that while the study provides promising insights, further investigation is needed. The study's limitations include reliance on self-reported questionnaire data and lack of continuous follow-up on oral hygiene practices throughout the 25-year period.

Daniel T. Lackland, an American Heart Association expert not involved in the study, suggested that these findings could potentially influence future cardiovascular risk factor guidelines, potentially incorporating dental health practices into existing prevention strategies.

The study's diverse participant group, comprising 82% white and 18% Black adults with an average age of 62 and 55% women, provides a robust representation of potential cardiovascular health trends.

As a simple, affordable, and accessible health intervention, regular dental flossing emerges as a potentially valuable strategy for individuals seeking to maintain cardiovascular health and reduce stroke risks.