While some study
results* indicate the use of a mouth rinse can be as effective as
flossing for reducing plaque between the teeth, the American Dental
Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice a day and cleaning between
the teeth with floss or interdental cleaners once each day to remove
plaque from all tooth surfaces. Plaque is responsible for both tooth
decay and gum disease.
Regarding the studies,
the authors concluded that in patients with mild to moderate
gingivitis (early periodontal [gum] disease), rinsing twice a day with
an antiseptic mouth rinse was as effective as flossing for reducing
plaque and gingivitis between the teeth. The studies did not examine
whether the mouth rinse had the same effect as floss on reducing tooth
decay or periodontitis (advanced periodontal [gum] disease). Flossing
and interdental cleaners also help remove food debris caught between
teeth that may not be rinsed away.
The ADA recommends
the following for good oral hygiene:
4 Brush your teeth
twice a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride
toothpaste.
4 Clean between
teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.
Decay–causing
bacteria still linger between teeth where toothbrush
bristles can’t
reach. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from
between the
teeth and under the gum line.
4 Eat a balanced
diet and limit between-meal snacks.
4 Visit your dentist
regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
Talk to your dentist
about what types of oral care products will be most effective for you.
The ADA Seal on a product is your assurance that it has met ADA
criteria for safety and effectiveness. Look for the ADA Seal on
fluoride toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, interdental cleaners, oral
irrigators, mouth rinses and other oral hygiene products.
Replace your
toothbrush every three or four months , or sooner if the bristles
become frayed. A worn toothbrush will not do a good job of cleaning
your teeth. Children’s toothbrushes often need replacing more
frequently than adults because they can wear out sooner.
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*Sharma, et. al., Am. J.
Dent. 15:351-355, 2002.
Bauroth, et.al., J. Am. Dent. Assn. 134:359-365, Mar 2003
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