A leading cardiologist has highlighted flossing as one of the most overlooked daily habits that could significantly improve long-term health and potentially extend lifespan. According to Dr Sanjay Bhojraj, maintaining proper oral hygiene is closely linked to cardiovascular health, yet nearly 80 percent of adults fail to floss regularly.

In a recent Instagram post, Dr Bhojraj said oral health remains one of the strongest but most ignored predictors of heart disease. He explained that chronic gum inflammation has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, arterial plaque buildup and metabolic disorders. The doctor stressed that many people focus heavily on diets, supplements and exercise while overlooking basic oral care habits that may have a major impact on overall health.

According to Dr Bhojraj, poor oral hygiene allows harmful bacteria and inflammation from the gums to enter the bloodstream. Over time, this can contribute to damage in blood vessels and increase strain on the cardiovascular system. Medical research in recent years has increasingly linked periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, with a higher likelihood of developing heart-related conditions.

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Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from areas between the teeth that toothbrushes often cannot effectively clean. Dentists and healthcare professionals say this reduces bacterial growth and prevents inflammation in the gums. While brushing twice daily remains essential, experts note that flossing is equally important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

Modern lifestyles marked by stress, long working hours, irregular sleep and sedentary habits have contributed to declining oral health awareness among adults. Health professionals warn that neglecting oral hygiene can gradually lead to chronic inflammation, infections and other complications that extend beyond dental problems and affect overall wellbeing.

Doctors continue to encourage simple preventive health measures that can be incorporated into daily routines without significant effort or expense. Experts say habits such as flossing regularly, maintaining balanced nutrition, staying physically active and attending routine health check-ups can collectively reduce long-term disease risks and improve quality of life as people age.

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