Accessory interdental cleaning aids in plaque control

Eliminating the dental plaque is the key to prevent the occurrence of periodontal disease and preservation of healthy periodontium. The dental and periodontal diseases predominantly originate in interproximal area; hence interdental plaque removal is a useful aid to control its occurrence. Tooth brush cannot accomplish plaque removal for the interproximal tooth surfaces and adjacent gingiva to the same degree that it does for the facial, lingual and palatal aspects. Therefore, it is essential to augment tooth brushing with special interdental cleaning aids like dental floss, interdental brushes, tooth pick and other newer techniques like water flosser and air floss. The choice of use of these aids depends largely on the size and shape of interdental embrasures, the contour and consistency of gingival tissues, the morphology of proximal tooth surface and the tooth position and alignment in oral cavity. Also, ease of its use and patient cooperation are important considerations.