Abstract

KUBO, Fabíola Mayumi Miyauchi  and  MIALHE, Fábio Luiz. Dental floss: from difficulty to success in the removal of interproximal biofilms. Arq. Odontol. [online]. 2011, vol.47, n.1, pp. 51-55. ISSN 1516-0939.

Oral hygiene is important in preventing caries and periodontal disease. Regarding interproximal surfaces, dental floss is considered an excellent instrument for the removal of plaque from these locations; however, it has been proven that its frequency of use is still quite low in the general population. As such, the present study aimed to carry out a literature review referent to the factors related to the use of dental floss, its efficiency in reducing interproximal plaque, and the educational techniques that can be used to advise and motivate patients. It was concluded that only a small percentage of the population actually uses dental floss. Moreover, difficulties also arise in the efficient self-removal of interproximal biofilms. However when patients are properly advised and motivated, the quality of their hygiene habits also increases proportionally. This is commonly achieved through specific educational techniques.

Keywords : Dental floss; Dental plaque; Health education dental.