Most people floss their teeth to keep their gums healthy and their breath fresh, but new research suggests it might also protect your heart and brain. Scientists have found a possible link between regular flossing and a lower risk of stroke—especially strokes caused by blood clots or an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation (AFib).

How Does Oral Health Affect Stroke Risk?

Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria. When you don’t floss, bacteria and plaque can accumulate along the gum line, leading to inflammation and gum disease. This inflammation doesn’t just stay in your mouth. It can spread through your bloodstream and contribute to problems in other parts of the body, including your arteries.

Inflammation in the arteries can make them more prone to developing clots, which may lead to a stroke. AFib, an irregular heartbeat that increases stroke risk, has also been linked to poor oral health. Researchers believe that keeping your gums healthy by flossing may help reduce inflammation and, in turn, lower your chances of developing these serious conditions.

A recent study, presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference, followed over 6,200 adults for 25 years and found that those who flossed at least once a week had significantly lower risks of these types of strokes:

• 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke – This type of stroke happens when a blood clot blocks an artery supplying blood to the brain.
• 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke – This occurs when a clot forms in the heart and travels to the brain, often due to AFib.
• 12% lower risk of developing AFib – This irregular heartbeat condition is one of the biggest risk factors for stroke.

The study also showed that the benefits of flossing were independent of other factors like regular tooth brushing and routine dental checkups. Even people who didn’t brush twice a day still saw a lower stroke risk if they flossed at least once a week.

How to Make Flossing a Habit

If you’re not flossing regularly, this information might be a good incentive to start. Here are a few simple ways to make it part of your daily routine:

• Keep floss handy. Store floss where you’ll see it, such as next to your toothbrush or in your bag for easy access.
• Use the right type of floss. If traditional floss feels uncomfortable, try dental tape, floss picks or a water flosser.
• Floss at a good time for you. If you’re too tired at night, try flossing after lunch instead.
• Be gentle. Avoid digging the floss into your gums. Instead, move it in a C-shape along each tooth to remove plaque effectively.
• Stay consistent. Flossing at least once a week showed benefits in the study, but daily flossing is even better for your overall health.

While flossing isn’t a magic bullet for preventing strokes, it’s an easy way to improve your health. Combined with a healthy diet, exercise and regular medical checkups, flossing could be a small step that makes a big difference in protecting your brain and heart.

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