Why your neurologist may ask if you floss
Looking for an easy daily habit that can reduce your risk of stroke? You don’t have to go farther than your bathroom cabinet.
A new study presented at the International Stroke Conference found flossing just once a week, independent of other dental care, reduces your risk of stroke. Flossing more regularly further decreases your risk.
The researchers surveyed over 6,000 participants on their flossing and brushing habits, blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, smoking habits, body mass index, education and dental visits. After 25 years, 434 participants developed a stroke and 1,291 participants experienced atrial fibrillation.
Based on this data, the study concluded flossing lowered the risk of ischemic and cardioembolic stroke by 22% and 44% respectively. An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot prevents blood flow to the brain. A cardioembolic stroke happens when the clot originates in the heart.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke every year.
“Oral health can impact both cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health,” says Dr. Rochelle Sweis, a neurointensivist with Advocate Health Care. “Since a simple habit such as dental flossing can decrease risk of atrial fibrillation, heart disease and stroke, people at risk should highly consider adopting this behavior change.”
Dr. Sweis explains that periodontal disease triggers inflammation that can harden and block arteries, which could lead to a heart attack. “Poor oral health can also result in endocarditis, in which the oral bacterial travel to and destroy the valves of the heart, increasing the risk of stroke,” she adds.
You may be at increased risk of stroke if you:
- Are age 55 or older
- Are African American
- Are male
- Have a family history of the condition
“Some factors, such as gender and family history, cannot be changed,” Dr. Sweis says. “Risk factors within your control include managing your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and avoiding dangerous habits, such as smoking and alcohol consumption.”
Other medical history can also increase your risk of stroke, such as atrial fibrillation, sickle cell disease and underlying malignancy.
Want to learn more about your risk for stroke? Take a free online quiz.
