Regular use of dental floss and interdental brushes may lower the risk of ischemic stroke by 23% [1].

These findings suggest that oral hygiene is not merely a matter of dental health but a critical component of systemic cardiovascular and neurological prevention. Because bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, simple daily habits may prevent severe brain injuries.

A medical research team from Seoul National University conducted a cohort study following approximately 98,000 adults aged 40 and older [1]. The researchers monitored the participants over a period of nine years [1]. The study focused on individuals who brushed their teeth twice daily [1].

According to the data, participants who combined twice-daily brushing with the regular use of dental floss or interdental brushes saw a 23% reduction in ischemic stroke risk [1]. The benefit was even more pronounced for those starting with poor oral health, who experienced a 41% lower risk [1].

The biological mechanism involves the movement of oral bacteria and inflammatory substances. These elements can travel through tiny blood vessels from the gums to other parts of the body, potentially triggering heart and brain diseases [2].

"Periodontal diseases, including gum inflammation, do not only harm oral health," said Reporter Kwon Min-seok of YTN News [2].

Kwon said that bacteria and inflammatory substances can spread throughout the body via capillaries, which may induce diseases of the heart or brain [2]. An anchor for YTN News said that properly brushing with the use of dental floss or interdental brushes can significantly lower the risk of stroke [2].

“Regular use of dental floss and interdental brushes may lower the risk of ischemic stroke by 23%.”

This research reinforces the systemic link between oral inflammation and vascular health. By demonstrating that the most significant risk reduction occurs in patients with poor oral health, the study suggests that targeted dental interventions could serve as a low-cost, scalable preventative measure for stroke in high-risk populations.