Evaluation of floss types for interproximal plaque removal

Area of Science:

• Dental Hygiene
• Periodontology
• Preventive Dentistry

Background:

• Interproximal plaque accumulation is a primary factor in dental caries and periodontal disease.
• Various dental floss types exist, each with purported benefits for plaque removal and user experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of four distinct dental floss types (waxed, unwaxed, woven, shred-resistant) in removing interproximal plaque.
• To assess user comfort and ease of use associated with each floss type.

Main Methods:

• A within-subjects study design was employed with 24 dental hygiene students.
• Participants underwent plaque disclosure and scoring (O'Leary's Plaque Index) before and after using each of the four floss types over a 3-day plaque regrowth period.
• Flossing time and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores for comfort and ease of use were recorded for each floss type.

Main Results:

• Waxed floss demonstrated the greatest reduction in total interproximal plaque score (TIPS) and posterior interproximal plaque score (PIPS).
• Woven floss showed the highest reduction in anterior interproximal plaque score (AIPS).
• Despite observed differences, post-hoc analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in plaque removal efficacy among the four floss types. Shred-resistant floss scored highest on the VAS for comfort.

Conclusions:

• All tested floss types exhibited comparable efficacy in interproximal plaque removal.
• User preference for comfort and ease of use varied, with shred-resistant floss being rated most comfortable.
• The choice of floss may be influenced by individual comfort and ease of use rather than significant differences in plaque removal efficacy.