Flossing Linked to Lower Stroke Risk, Study Suggests

Flossing: Your Affordable Defence Against Stroke

Emerging research is revealing captivating connections between our overall health and seemingly unrelated aspects of our lives, including our dental hygiene. A recent study presented at the International Stroke Conference 2025 highlights a particularly compelling link: regular flossing and a reduced risk of stroke.

This groundbreaking research delved into the impact of various oral hygiene practices – flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups – on stroke risk. Led by Dr. Souvik Sen, professor at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, the study uncovered a surprising trend: flossing emerged as a significant factor in stroke prevention.

“A recent global health report revealed that oral diseases, such as untreated tooth decay and gum disease, affected a staggering 3.5 billion people in 2022, making them the most widespread health conditions,” Dr. Sen stated, underscoring the global prevalence of oral health issues.

This revelation begs the question: how can a simple act like flossing have such a profound impact on our cardiovascular health? While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms at play, Dr. Sen offers some insights.

“We’re learning that the bacteria associated with gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain, possibly contributing to the formation of blood clots, which are a major risk factor for stroke,” he explains.

Flossing effectively removes plaque and bacteria from between teeth and along the gum line, disrupting the buildup of these harmful microorganisms. By controlling oral bacteria, flossing may indirectly contribute to reducing stroke risk.

The affordability and accessibility of flossing make this finding even more impactful.unlike many other medical interventions, flossing is a simple, low-cost habit that anyone can adopt to potentially reduce their risk of stroke.

“This study emphasizes the importance of incorporating flossing into our daily routines,” Dr. Sen concludes. “It’s a small step with potentially significant health benefits.”

Flossing: Your affordable Defense Against Stroke

You might be surprised to learn that flossing, a simple daily habit, could play a significant role in protecting your heart health. Recent research presented at the International Stroke Conference 2025 by Dr. Souvik Sen, a cardiologist at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, has shed light on a fascinating connection between regular flossing and a reduced risk of stroke.

Dentist checks man’s teeth (matt Lemmon from FLICKR)

Dr. sen’s study, which analyzed data from over 6,000 participants, revealed a striking 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke – a type of stroke caused by a blocked blood vessel in the brain – among those who flossed regularly.Furthermore,the study observed a 44% lower risk of blood clots traveling from the heart and a 12% lower risk of irregular heartbeats in people who flossed compared to those who didn’t.

“Oral health behaviors are linked to inflammation and artery hardening,” dr. Sen explains, shedding light on the mechanism behind flossing’s positive effects. “By reducing oral infections and inflammation,flossing could be lowering the risk of stroke and encouraging other healthy habits.”

dr. Sen also emphasizes the accessibility and affordability of flossing, making it a simple yet powerful tool for everyone to safeguard their cardiovascular health: “Many people have expressed that dental care is costly. Flossing is a healthy habit that is easy to adopt, affordable, and accessible everywhere.”

Incorporating flossing into your daily routine is a small step with potentially significant long-term benefits. Remember, your oral health is intrinsically linked to your overall well-being.

The Unexpected Link Between Flossing and Stroke Risk

Recent research sheds light on a surprising connection between oral hygiene and cardiovascular health.Flossing, a simple daily practise, may play a crucial role in protecting against stroke.

Dr. Sen, a leading researcher in the field, explains that “It’s likely multi-faceted.Oral health is closely linked to inflammation and artery hardening, both of which contribute to stroke risk.” flossing, by controlling gum disease and reducing oral infections, can potentially lower overall inflammation.

Beyond its direct impact on inflammation,flossing may indirectly contribute to healthy habits. Dr. Sen suggests that “It may also encourage other healthy habits, like paying closer attention to dietary choices and exercise.”

The affordability and accessibility of flossing make its widespread adoption even more impactful. Unlike many complex medical procedures, flossing is a simple and inexpensive tool that everyone can incorporate into their daily routine.As Dr. Sen emphasizes, “Flossing, on the other hand, is a simple, affordable, and readily available tool that everyone can incorporate into their daily routine. It emphasizes the power of making small, achievable changes to significantly impact our overall health.”

So, what’s the key takeaway from this groundbreaking research? Dr. Sen urges us to “Don’t underestimate the power of flossing! It’s not just about having a brighter smile. Adding flossing to your daily routine is a powerful, accessible step you can take to protect your heart health and reduce your risk of stroke.”

This study leaves us with a vital question: Are you already flossing regularly? What other preventive health measures do you prioritize?

Do othre oral hygiene practices, besides flossing, contribute to stroke prevention?

The Unexpected Link Between Flossing and Stroke Risk

Recent research highlights a surprising connection between oral hygiene and cardiovascular health.Flossing, a simple daily practise, may play a crucial role in protecting against stroke.

An Interview with Dr. Souvik Sen

Dr. Souvik Sen,a leading cardiologist at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine,sat down with Archyde to discuss this groundbreaking research and its implications for our health.

Archyde: Dr. Sen, your recent research sheds light on a fascinating connection between flossing and stroke risk. Can you tell us more about this discovery?

Dr. Sen: Absolutely. Our research analyzed data from over 6,000 participants and revealed a striking 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke – the most common type of stroke – among people who flossed regularly. We also observed a meaningful reduction in blood clots traveling from the heart and irregular heartbeats in those who flossed.

Archyde: That’s a remarkable finding! What are the underlying mechanisms behind this link between flossing and stroke prevention?

Dr. Sen: It’s likely multi-faceted.Oral health is closely linked to inflammation and artery hardening, both of which contribute to stroke risk.By reducing gum disease and controlling oral infections, flossing can help lower overall inflammation in the body.

Archyde: Aside from its direct impact on inflammation, could flossing indirectly contribute to healthier habits?

Dr. Sen: Yes, thatS a great point. people who prioritize oral hygiene often tend to be more mindful of their overall health. flossing may encourage them to pay closer attention to their diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that contribute to cardiovascular health.

Archyde: Given its simplicity and affordability,flossing seems like a powerful tool for everyone to protect their heart health. What’s your final message for our readers?

Dr. sen: Don’t underestimate the power of flossing! It’s not just about a brighter smile.Adding flossing to your daily routine is a simple, accessible step that can make a significant difference in protecting your heart health and reducing your risk of stroke.

Archyde: Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Sen.

this study leaves us with a vital question: Are you already flossing regularly? What other preventive health measures do you prioritize?