Meta‐analysis on the association between the frequency of tooth brushing and hypertension risk

It is unclear whether the frequency of tooth brushing affects the risk of hypertension; thus, we conducted the first meta‐analysis to focus on this topic. In this meta‐analysis, we systematically searched the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from their inception to October 2021 to identify eligible studies, while reference lists from retrieved review paper were also reviewed. We then conducted a meta‐analysis of the highest compared with the lowest tooth brushing frequency, along with a dose‐response meta‐analysis, to explore this association. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were conducted to identify the sources of heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated using Begg's and Egger's tests. We found eight relevant studies, three cohort and five cross‐sectional, involving a total of 274 124 patients. Compared to the highest tooth brushing frequency, the lowest increased the risk of hypertension by 84.0% (OR 1.84; 95% CI, 1.44–2.35). Furthermore, a nonlinear dose‐response relationship was observed (P < .05). The exclusion of any studies did not significantly alter the combined risk estimate, and no publication bias was detected. In conclusions, we report that epidemiological evidence supports the hypothesis that a lower frequency of tooth brushing is significantly associated with a higher risk of hypertension. Preventive interventions, such as adopting a good oral health routine, should be encouraged to maintain good general health.