Linking flossing to potential prevention of stroke and atrial fibrillation: Examination of its impact on bodily health.
poor oral health reaches beyond cavities and bad breath, heralding potential risks for brain shrinkage, dementia, diabetes, immune system weaknesses, and even cancer. A recent study provides an added reason to prioritize dental hygiene: flossing can ward off stroke and atrial fibrillation.
Conducted over 25 years, the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study found that flossing at least once a week could lower the risk of stroke caused by blood clots blocking brain blood flow and the chance of developing irregular heartbeats. The study included over 6,200 participants and uncovered significant reductions in stroke and atrial fibrillation risk:
- Ischemic stroke risk was 22% lower for weekly flossers.
- Cardioembolic stroke (blood clots traveling from the heart) risk fell by 44% for weekly flossers.
- Atrial fibrillation or AFib risk dropped by 12%.
Increasing the frequency of flossing further deepened the reduction in stroke risk, suggesting that diligent oral hygiene may offer even greater benefits.
The study lead author, Souvik Sen, M.D., attributed the heart and blood vessel benefits of flossing to its effect on oral health behaviors and associated inflammation, as well as its encouragement of other healthy habits. Harmful bacteria in the mouth, along with their inflammatory byproducts, can seep into the bloodstream and work at hardening arteries and causing clot formation.
To prevent this ticking time bomb, regular teeth brushing, flossing, and dental visits are crucial. Additionally, switching to oil pulling instead of traditional mouthwashes (which can raise blood pressure) is recommended. Maintaining a healthy oral microbiome, avoiding smoking, staying hydrated, and using dental probiotics can also promote optimal oral health.
As people age, their mouths require extra care, as the enamel on their teeth becomes more susceptible to wear and gum tissue tends to recede. Dry mouth issues may also arise due to age-related decreases in salivary gland function or due to certain medications.
Poor gums and teeth are not only linked to dental issues but also to conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson's disease, and depression. Neglecting oral health can set the stage for a dangerous public health peril.
Sources:Regular dental flossing may lower risk of stroke from blood clots, irregular heartbeats - EurekAlert!
The study conducted by the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) suggests that maintaining healthy oral habits, such as flossing at least once a week, can potentially reduce the risk of cardioembolic stroke by 44%. This finding underscores the significant role that science plays in linking dental hygiene, particularly flossing, to health-and-wellness benefits, including a lower risk of stroke and atrial fibrillation.
