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Evaluating the efficacy of a new flossing aid
V W Spolsky1, D A Perry, Z Meng
1Section of Public Health Dentistry, UCLA School of Dentistry.
Journal of Clinical Periodontology
|August 1, 1993
Summary
A new flossing aid showed no significant difference in preventing plaque or gingival inflammation compared to traditional finger flossing. However, users slightly preferred the new aid, suggesting its potential in preventive dentistry.
Area of Science:
- Dental Hygiene
- Preventive Dentistry
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Gingival inflammation and plaque buildup are common oral health issues.
- Effective interdental cleaning is crucial for preventing these conditions.
- Traditional finger flossing can be challenging for some individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of a novel flossing aid (Flosser) against finger flossing.
- To evaluate the prevention of plaque and gingival inflammation using both methods.
- To assess user preference between the flossing aid and finger flossing.
Main Methods:
- A 2-period, single-blind crossover study involving 35 adults.
- Participants were randomly assigned to use either the flossing aid or finger floss daily for 30 days.
- Gingival inflammation (GI, BPI) and plaque index (PI) were measured before and after each 30-day treatment period, separated by a washout period.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were found in gingival inflammation or plaque scores between the flossing aid and finger flossing groups.
- Mean differences in scores (Flosser minus finger flossing) were -0.013 for GI, -0.017 for BPI, and 0.019 for PI.
- Participant compliance was high (90%), and 56% slightly preferred the flossing aid over finger flossing.
Conclusions:
- The new flossing aid is as effective as finger flossing in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation.
- Despite no statistically significant difference, user preference suggests the flossing aid is a viable option.
- The flossing aid may enhance preventive dentistry efforts due to its user appeal.
