Association between toothbrushing habits and hypertension in the general population

Periodontitis has been linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD), suggesting that oral care may play a role in CVD prevention. In contrast, hypertension has been linked to oral health; however, its association with toothbrushing habits is unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between toothbrushing habits and hypertension. A total of 941 participants (361 men, mean age: 67 ± 11 years) from a 2019 community-based study conducted in Tarumizu City were included. Hypertension was defined as systolic BP ≥ 140 mmHg, diastolic BP ≥ 90 mmHg, or use of antihypertensive medications. Toothbrushing habits were assessed using a questionnaire, and oral health was evaluated by dentists. The mean BP was 132 ± 17/78 ± 11 mmHg, with a hypertension prevalence of 56%. Participants reported toothbrushing rates of 33% upon waking, 8% before breakfast, 69% after breakfast, 48% after lunch, 4% before dinner, 42% after dinner, and 51% before sleeping. In the univariable analysis, both the timing of toothbrushing (after breakfast, after lunch, or before sleeping) and brushing frequency (≥ 3 times/day) were significantly associated with a lower prevalence of hypertension. Multivariable analysis revealed a significant association between toothbrushing after breakfast and hypertension. In conclusion, toothbrushing after breakfast was independently associated with a reduced risk of hypertension.