Key Takeaways

Gum disease was linked to brain vessel damage and a higher risk of stroke in pair of a studiesHaving both gum disease and cavities raised stroke risk by 86%Regular brushing, flossing and dental visits lowered stroke risk by up to 81%

THURSDAY, Oct. 23, 2025 (HealthDay News) — If you need another reason to brush and floss, here it is: Research suggests keeping your mouth healthy might also protect your brain and heart.

Two new studies published Oct. 22 in Neurology Open Access linked gum disease and cavities to a higher risk of stroke and brain damage.

In the first study , adults with gum disease were more likely to have white matter changes in their brains.

“Gum disease is associated with a higher chance of inflammation, and inflammation has been tied to atherosclero

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