Prevention begins with knowledge. Every day, PDS Health clinicians help patients understand how oral health influences overall health and how simple daily habits can have a lasting impact. These conversations strengthen the Mouth-Body Connection® and help patients make informed decisions that support their long-term health.
One of the simplest examples is flossing. While many people think of it as a way to maintain healthy gums, research continues to reveal its broader role in preventive health care.
Research Reinforces the Connection
PDS Health Founder and CEO Stephen E. Thorne IV highlighted findings from the American Stroke Association that further demonstrate the connection between oral health and overall health.
“We’ve long known that oral health is whole body health, and new research by the American Stroke Association has made the connection even clearer,” Steve said. “Flossing at least once a week can significantly decrease the risk of stroke or atrial fibrillation. Once a week? That’s a crazy study, and really, all of us should be flossing twice a day.”
The study followed 6,000 people for 25 years and found that regular flossing was associated with a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke and a 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke. Researchers also found these benefits were independent of toothbrushing and routine dental visits.
A Simple Habit with Lasting Impact
“This study is another reminder that dentistry plays a critical role in preventive healthcare,” Steve said. “The good news is flossing is simple, affordable and accessible to everyone. Educating patients about the Mouth-Body Connection goes beyond improving smiles. It’s about preventing serious life-threatening conditions and promoting whole body health.”
For PDS Health clinicians, those conversations are part of everyday patient care. Helping patients understand the relationship between oral health and overall health encourages healthier habits, supports earlier intervention, and reinforces the important role dentistry plays in preventive healthcare.
Advancing Health Through Education
Joining PDS Health means becoming part of a team committed to improving patient health through education, collaboration, and dental-medical integration. Every patient interaction is an opportunity to translate research into practical guidance that can improve health today and help prevent disease tomorrow.
Watch Steve’s full video about the importance of flossing here.
