Flossing Once a Week Could Reduce Stroke Risk: Study Finds

A recent study has explored a potential association between regular flossing and a reduced risk of certain types of stroke. The research suggests that consistent flossing may contribute to better cardiovascular health by impacting systemic inflammation.

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The Study at a Glance

Researchers analyzed data from over 6,200 participants ¹who self-reported their dental hygiene habits, including flossing frequency. Over a 25-year follow-up period, 434 participants experienced strokes, and nearly 1,300 developed atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular heart rhythm. The study observed that individuals who reported flossing at least once a week had a:

22% lower observed risk of ischemic stroke (associated with blocked arteries)
44% lower observed risk of cardioembolic stroke (associated with blood clots traveling from the heart)
12% lower observed risk of developing AFib

It’s important to note that this study demonstrates an association, not causation. Other factors related to lifestyle and overall health could contribute to both flossing frequency and stroke risk. Further research is needed to establish a definitive causal link. Also, self-reported flossing habits may not accurately reflect actual flossing behavior.

What is a stroke?

A stroke, often termed a “brain attack,” occurs when the brain’s blood supply is interrupted, leading to the death of brain cells due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. This interruption can result from either a blockage or a rupture in a blood vessel within the brain. The two primary types of strokes are ischemic and hemorrhagic.

An ischemic stroke, accounting for approximately 87% of all cases, happens when a blood clot obstructs a vessel supplying blood to the brain. Conversely, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel bursts, causing bleeding into or around the brain.

Recognizing stroke symptoms promptly is crucial for effective treatment. The acronym FAST aids in identifying these signs: Face Drooping, Arm Weakness, Speech Difficulty, and Time to call emergency services.

Immediate medical attention is vital, as timely intervention can significantly reduce brain damage and improve recovery outcomes. Understanding the causes, types, and symptoms of stroke empowers individuals to act swiftly, potentially saving lives and minimizing long-term disabilities.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth. It typically begins with gingivitis, where the gums become red, swollen, and may bleed due to plaque buildup along the gumline. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to the breakdown of gum tissue and the bone that holds the teeth in place. Common symptoms include persistent bad breath, gum recession, tooth mobility, and even tooth loss in severe cases.

The primary cause is poor oral hygiene, but factors such as smoking, diabetes, genetic predisposition, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk. Bacteria in plaque release toxins that trigger inflammation, weakening the gum attachment to the teeth. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and include professional deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotics, and, in advanced cases, surgical procedures like flap surgery or bone grafting.

Understanding the Potential Connection

The hypothesized link between flossing and reduced stroke risk centers around the role of inflammation. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum disease (periodontitis) and oral infections, which are associated with systemic inflammation. This inflammation may play a role in the development of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries) and increase the risk of blood clot formation, both of which are risk factors for stroke. Flossing, by removing plaque and food particles from between teeth, can help reduce the risk of gum disease and potentially lessen systemic inflammation. However, the mechanisms by which oral inflammation might directly affect stroke risk are still being investigated.

Beyond Brushing: The Complementary Role of Flossing

While brushing is crucial for removing plaque from the tooth surfaces, flossing is essential for cleaning the interdental spaces (between teeth) where plaque and food particles tend to accumulate. This is important because these areas are often inaccessible to a toothbrush. By removing these substances, flossing helps prevent gum disease and may contribute to reducing systemic inflammation. The study suggests a potential benefit of flossing in relation to stroke risk, independent of other oral hygiene practices, but this needs further confirmation.

Implementing Flossing into Your Routine

Dental professionals generally recommend flossing daily for optimal oral health. While this study observed an association with at least weekly flossing, more frequent flossing is generally recommended. Effective flossing technique is important:

Use about 18 inches of floss, winding most of it around your middle fingers, leaving an inch or two to work with.
Hold the floss taut between your thumbs and index fingers and gently slide it up and down between your teeth.
Curve the floss around the base of each tooth, ensuring you go beneath the gumline. Avoid snapping or forcing the floss.
Use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.

Alternatives to traditional floss, such as interdental brushes or water flossers, may be recommended by your dentist or hygienist, especially if you find traditional flossing difficult.

A Holistic Approach to Health

This research highlights the potential connection between oral health and overall well-being. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular flossing, is important for oral health and may contribute to cardiovascular health. It is important to remember that flossing is just one component of a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine medical checkups.

Conclusion

While the study suggests a potential association between flossing and reduced risk of certain types of stroke, more research is needed to confirm these findings and establish a causal link. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular flossing, is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and should be discussed with your dentist or physician. This information should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Sources:

https://www.heart.org/en/news/2025/01/30/flossing-may-reduce-risk-for-stroke-and-irregular-heart-rhythm? ↩︎