Can Flossing Minimize Stroke Risk?

We know many of you recognize that flossing is good for you. We also know you may not want to take the time to floss. Maybe you find it hard manipulating floss between tight teeth. Perhaps you’re simply tired of cleaning flying food particles off the bathroom mirror!

A dental survey once rather humorously reported that Americans would rather clean toilets, get stuck in traffic or even do their taxes more than floss. But there’s nothing funny about not flossing, a simple action that can help keep you healthier. Here’s how:

Flossing Helps Prevent Infection

A report presented earlier this year at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference found that flossing was associated with a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke, a 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke (blood clots that travel from the heart) and a 12% lower risk of Afib.

Why All the Flossing Fuss?

We encourage you try to incorporate daily flossing into your lifestyle! Flossing simply makes sense. By helping prevent oral decay and infections, flossing reduces inflammation which can contribute to your risk of health issues like stroke.

Yes, brushing removes dental plaque from the teeth surfaces. But when you add flossing to your routine, you can remove hard-to-reach debris that your toothbrush can’t reach, the damaging bacteria that helps set the stage for tooth decay and the plaque buildup that can occur along and under the gumline.

Basic Flossing Dos and Don’ts

Consider traditional dental floss, dental picks, tiny brushes or water flossers —they’re all great methods you can use to reach below the gumline. Be sure to gently clean up and down on both sides of each tooth, including your back molars. Don’t use fingernails, folded paper, fork tines or safety pins!

Also, keep in mind that reusing floss can spread bacteria, so be sure to take a clean section for each tooth if you’re employing traditional floss. Flossing products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance have been studied and are proven to be safe and effective.

Ask your SFCPID periodontal hygienist to demonstrate flossing techniques, suggest products and offer any other tips. We’re judgement-free and would be thrilled to help you on your journey to better dental home care.