Sustainability of regular use of interdental cleaning tools in periodontally healthy individuals.

backgroundThe aim of this study was to compare the sustainability of regular use of 2 different interdental cleaning tools in 24 weeks by periodontally healthy individuals as a component of primary prevention.

methodsPeriodontally healthy individuals were randomly assigned to dental floss or rubber interdental pick group. Participants received an oral care kit and a calendar to record the times they used the floss/pick. Full-mouth scores of plaque and bleeding were recorded. They were recalled on the 8th and 24th weeks, and asked to bring back the waste of the interdental cleaning tools. Regular use was defined as using the tool ≥ 3 days/week, and sustainability is the number of weeks with regular use. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests.

resultsFifty-four participants completed the study protocol. Of these, 28 were in the rubber interdental pick, and 26 were in the dental floss group. In the rubber pick group, the mean number of weeks with regular use was 12.61 out of 24 weeks, while it was 4.96 in the dental floss group. The difference between the study groups in terms of the sustainability of regular use of the interdental cleaning tool was statistically significant (p = 0.003). Plaque and bleeding scores were similar in the study groups at baseline and recall (p > 0.05), and negatively correlated with the number of weeks with regular use (p < 0.05).

conclusionWithin the limits of this study, the use of rubber interdental picks can be recommended for superior sustainability in periodontally healthy individuals, provided that the interdental space allows passage. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: This study compared how well rubber interdental picks and dental floss work over 6 months for people with healthy gums. It aimed to find out which tool people use more consistently. Interdental cleaning is important because brushing alone does not remove all the plaque. Regular cleaning between teeth helps to prevent gum diseases and tooth decay. Fifty-four volunteers with healthy gums were divided into 2 groups: 1 group used rubber interdental picks, and the other used dental floss. Participants were instructed to use their assigned tool daily and follow a regular oral care routine. Their usage and oral health were monitored throughout the study. Results showed that people used rubber interdental picks more regularly than dental floss. On average, those using picks continued for about 12.6 weeks out of 24 weeks, while floss users maintained the habit for approximately 5 weeks. As a conclusion, rubber interdental picks seem to be more likely to be used consistently and can be more effective for maintaining gum health compared to dental floss.