I Thought It Was Only Good for the Mouth... Dental Floss Is Also Beneficial for the Brain and Heart

"Oral Hygiene, a Key Factor in Overall Health"

A study has found that regular flossing may help reduce the risk of stroke.

Recently, researchers from the Medical School of the University of South Carolina in the United States tracked 6,278 participants without a history of stroke and 6,108 participants without a history of atrial fibrillation for 25 years. They announced research results showing that people who consistently maintain oral care, such as flossing, have a lower risk of stroke and atrial fibrillation.

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The researchers followed the participants for 25 years to check whether they developed stroke or atrial fibrillation. About 65% (4,092 people) of the participants responded that they flossed at least once a week. Atrial fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia where the heart beats irregularly and can cause stroke.

The study found that during the follow-up period, 434 participants were diagnosed with stroke and 1,291 with atrial fibrillation. However, those who flossed at least once a week had a lower risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke. Compared to those who did not floss, people who flossed had a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke and a 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke. Additionally, the risk of atrial fibrillation was 12% lower. Ischemic stroke is a condition where blood vessels leading to the brain are blocked. Cardioembolic stroke occurs when a blood clot travels through the bloodstream to the brain’s blood vessels and blocks them.

The researchers explained, "Flossing reduces oral infections and gum disease," adding, "Since inflammation can increase the risk of stroke, it is natural that regularly flossing can help reduce the risk of stroke and atrial fibrillation."

Dr. Karen Fury from the Department of Neurology at Brown University Medical School in the U.S. also said, "Flossing helps remove debris between teeth that brushing alone might miss," and added, "Food particles or seeds that cause gum inflammation can affect vascular health if not removed."

Dr. Sobik Sen, who led the study, said, "This shows that good dental health is also important," and added, "Many people neglect oral hygiene, but this study demonstrates that oral hygiene is an important aspect of overall health."