Flossing and Heart Health: How a Simple Habit Can Reduce Stroke & AFib Risk

When it comes to heart health, most people focus on diet and exercise. But what if a simple daily habit like flossing could also play a crucial role in preventing heart disease, stroke, and atrial fibrillation (AFib)? New research suggests that maintaining good oral health, particularly through regular flossing, could significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In this article, we’ll dive into the link between flossing and heart health, the science behind it, and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine for maximum benefits.

The Surprising Connection Between Oral Health and Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including stroke, is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), nearly 1 million deaths were attributed to CVD in 2022 alone. While well-known factors like diet, exercise, and smoking play major roles in heart disease, emerging evidence shows that oral health may be just as important.

Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease (periodontitis), an inflammatory condition that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Chronic inflammation caused by gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Researchers now believe that reducing oral infections through flossing could lower this risk.

How Flossing Reduces Stroke and AFib Risk

A groundbreaking study presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2025 found that flossing regularly was linked to a significant reduction in stroke and AFib risk. The study, led by Dr. Souvik Sen of the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, analyzed data from over 6,000 participants who were followed for 25 years.

Key Findings:

Flossing at least once a week reduced the risk of ischemic stroke by 22%.
The risk of cardioembolic stroke (caused by a blood clot traveling from the heart to the brain) was 44% lower among regular flossers.
Participants who flossed regularly had a 12% lower risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart condition that increases stroke risk.
The benefits were independent of other oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and regular dental visits.

Why Does Flossing Help?

Dr. Sen explains that flossing likely reduces stroke and AFib risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation. Chronic gum disease can contribute to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the chances of heart attacks and strokes. By removing food particles and bacteria from between teeth, flossing helps prevent infections that can lead to inflammation and, ultimately, cardiovascular disease.

The Role of Inflammation in Heart Health

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infection and injury, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to serious health problems. Periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease, triggers persistent inflammation that can damage blood vessels and contribute to plaque buildup in arteries.

How Oral Bacteria Affects Your Heart

Recent research has found that Streptococcus anginosus, a bacterium commonly found in the mouth, is also present in the gut microbiomes of stroke survivors. This suggests a direct link between oral health and stroke risk. Dr. Shuichi Tonomura, a researcher in Osaka, Japan, believes that targeting harmful bacteria through proper oral care, including flossing, may help reduce stroke risk.

Flossing vs. Other Oral Hygiene Habits

While brushing and visiting the dentist are essential, flossing provides unique benefits that these habits alone cannot offer. Here’s how flossing compares:

Oral Hygiene Habit	Benefits
Brushing	Removes plaque and bacteria from the surface of teeth but doesn’t reach between teeth.
Flossing	Cleans between teeth, where most cavities and gum disease start. Reduces inflammation and lowers stroke risk.
Regular Dental Visits	Helps detect oral health issues early but doesn’t replace daily flossing.

How to Choose a Safe and Effective Dental Floss

Not all floss is created equal. Some floss brands contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), chemicals that may pose health risks. A 2019 study by the Silent Spring Institute found fluorine (a marker of PFAS) in several popular floss brands.

Tips for Choosing Healthy Floss:

Avoid PFAS-coated floss: Look for floss made from nylon or silk without synthetic coatings.
Opt for natural wax: Some flosses use beeswax or plant-based wax instead of PFAS.
Check ingredient labels: Brands that advertise being PFAS-free are a safer bet.

How to Floss Properly for Maximum Health Benefits

Flossing correctly is just as important as flossing regularly. Follow these steps for effective flossing:

Use about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your fingers.
Gently slide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion.
Curve the floss into a C-shape around each tooth and go below the gum line.
Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.
Repeat daily for best results.

Other Heart-Healthy Habits to Combine with Flossing

While flossing is a great addition to your heart-healthy routine, it works best when combined with other lifestyle changes. The American Heart Association recommends following Life’s Essential 8, which includes:

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Staying physically active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol intake.
Getting enough sleep (7-9 hours per night).
Maintaining a healthy weight and managing stress.
Keeping cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure in check.

The Bottom Line: Flossing for a Healthier Heart

The research is clear: regular flossing is more than just a dental hygiene habit—it’s a simple, cost-effective way to reduce the risk of stroke, AFib, and cardiovascular disease.

By incorporating flossing into your daily routine and combining it with other heart-healthy habits, you can take a proactive step toward improving your overall well-being.

So, the next time you brush your teeth, don’t forget to floss—it could save your life.

Ready to Take Charge of Your Heart Health?

Start flossing today and pair it with other heart-healthy choices for the best results. Your heart—and your dentist—will thank you!

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