Association of Toothbrushing, Dental Flossing, and Interdental Brushing with Stroke Risk

BackgroundStroke is the second leading cause of death globally. While daily toothbrushing is widely promoted for oral hygiene, the preventive impact of adjunctive practices such as dental flossing and interdental brushing on stroke remains unclear. ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the association between comprehensive oral hygiene behaviors and the risk of stroke. MethodsWe conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using data from the National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening cohort in Korea. A total of 98,866 adults aged 40 years or older who underwent both general and oral health examinations during 2009-2010 were included. Participants were followed from January 2011 to December 2019. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, death before baseline, or missing data were excluded. Oral hygiene practices, including daily toothbrushing frequency and weekly use of dental floss and interdental brushes, were self-reported. The primary outcome was stroke requiring hospitalization for [≥]2 days, classified as total, ischemic, or hemorrhagic stroke based on diagnostic codes. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios. ResultsCompared to individuals with poor oral hygiene, participants who brushed their teeth at least twice daily and consistently used dental floss and interdental brushes showed a 23% lower risk of ischemic stroke. A significant trend was observed across oral hygiene behavior categories. ConclusionsFrequent toothbrushing, along with regular use of dental floss and interdental brushes, was associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke. Promoting comprehensive oral hygiene may offer additional benefits in stroke prevention. Key PointsO_ST_ABSQuestionC_ST_ABSIs improved oral hygiene practices, including toothbrushing, dental flossing, and interdental brushing, associated with a reduced risk of stroke? FindingsIn this nationwide retrospective cohort study that included 98,866 participants, more frequent toothbrushing, particularly dental flossing, and interdental brushing were significantly associated with up to a 23% reduction in the risk of ischemic stroke, compared to those in the poorest oral health care group. MeaningEnhancing oral hygiene practices such as toothbrushing, dental flossing and interdental brushing may significantly reduce the risk of stroke.