Be good to your teeth: Regular flossing reduces risk of stroke, AFib
Adults who regularly floss their teeth may be significantly decreasing their risk of stroke or heart rhythm issues, according to new findings to be presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2025.
Researchers focused on data from more than 6,000 study participants with an average age of 62 years old. The group was followed for up to 25 years as part of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study. Over the course of the study, 434 participants had a stroke and 1,291 were diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib).
Overall, flossing at least once per week was associated with a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke, a 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke and a 12% lower risk of AFib. Flossing more often appeared to lead to more significant risk reductions.
The difference in AFib risk was unexpected, surprising researchers.
“Oral health behaviors are linked to inflammation and artery hardening,” lead author Souvik Sen, MD, MS, MPH, a vascular neurology specialist with Prisma Health Richland Hospital and the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, said in a statement. “Flossing may reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation and encouraging other healthy habits. Many people have expressed that dental care is costly. Flossing is a healthy habit that is easy to adopt, affordable and accessible everywhere.”
“This study offers more insights into the specific dental health behaviors that may be linked to stroke risks and potential risk reduction,” added Daniel T. Lackland, DrPH, a member of the American Heart Association EPI and Stroke Council and a neurologist with the Medical University of South Carolina. “With further research, dental health practices could possibly be incorporated into the ‘Life's Essential 8’ risk factors, which include diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, sleep, body mass index, blood pressure, blood glucose and blood lipids.”
Click here for additional details about International Stroke Conference 2025, scheduled for Feb. 5-7, 2025, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.