A recently published study, “Reduction of interdental plaque after the use of various devices in patients with periodontitis and interdental recession: a randomized clinical trial”, conducted by the University of Pisa, compared the effectiveness of four different oral hygiene products in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation in patients with periodontitis . The study showed that interdental brushes and rubber interdental toothpicks were superior in effectiveness compared to brushing teeth alone and brushing teeth in combination with dental floss.
Research has shown that plaque levels and gum inflammation can be reduced by using a toothbrush alone or in combination with interdental cleaners. However, compared to using a toothbrush alone or in combination with flossing, a further reduction in plaque and inflammation was observed when interdental brushes and rubber toothpicks were used in addition to the toothbrush. Although this is consistent with the results of previous studies, the current study was the first to follow only patients with periodontitis.
This study is important for dental patients with periodontitis. According to the study, approximately 30% of the world's adult population over the age of 50 suffers from this disease.
The findings support current recommendations for periodontal treatment and may provide important insights into daily practice, said study lead author Dr. Filippo Graziani, professor of periodontics at the University of Pisa's Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Intensive Care. He explained, “Interdental cleaning is a critical factor in maintaining periodontal health during and after treatment in periodontitis patients. Our study shows that interdental brushes or rubber toothpicks are the most effective devices for achieving high levels of interdental cleaning.”
Martijn Verhulst, Medical Relations Manager for international oral care company Sunstar, which provided the rubber toothpicks used in the study, added: “We very much welcome the focus on periodontitis patients in this study. interdental cleanings have been highly controversial, and even non-existent for rubber interdental floss, so these results will help clinicians.”
Verhulst continued: “The finding that rubber toothpicks and interdental brushes are most effective in reducing plaque and gum disease was in line with our own expectations. However, the results are also important in light of previous research and feedback, that we receive from our customers, showing that rubber interdental floss is generally considered easier to use than flossing or even interdental brushes. It is still important to take into account the dexterity and personal preference of the patient.”