Evaluation of usage of interdental aids among dentists as a preventive measure.

Sir,

With reference to the article by Madan et al.,[1] I would like to congratulate the author for highlighting the point that knowledge and practice of dental floss among dentists itself is very low. I would like to share some observations and experiences that may very well complement the content in the published article. Periodontal diseases in their various manifestations have afflicted humankind since the beginning of time. Since bacterial plaque is the principal etiological agent in gingival and periodontal diseases, daily oral hygiene practices are essential, and it is achieved commonly by tooth brushing.[2] However, brushing alone is insufficient in removing complete plaque especially the plaque that is accumulated in inter-dental areas. Various types of inter-dental cleaning aids have been developed in recent years. Dental floss is one of the common type of inter-dental aids for tight contacts, others being unitufted and proxa brush.

In spite of the knowledge that dental floss is considered as a golden bench mark in removing inter-dental plaque its practice is always compromised.[3] The main reasons being difficult to master the skill and its cost.[13] Even though there are availability of floss with handles making easy to use, studies have proved that it requires manual dexterity.[4] And on a constant, people lose interest to use, and there will be refraining from the practice.[3]

A cross-sectional, questionnaire study was conducted to know the knowledge and practice about inter-dental aids among dental Students of College of dental sciences, Davangere. 260 students from all the 4 years and house surgeons were included in the study. And on assessment 82% of the students had knowledge regarding the inter-dental aids and its use. However when asked for the question how many are using inter-dental aids as a preventive measure hardly 23% said yes and used dental floss on an irregular basis. Clinical students were comparatively better than nonclinical students. The reason for not using being difficult to use and need for more time which was similar to previous studies.[13] This indicates the necessary of motivating the students to follow self-oral hygiene practices.

Health education programs regarding inter-dental aids are necessary to create awareness and adequate training at undergraduate level is also essential to increase the prescription practices. Dentists should practice recommended oral self-care and act as role models in the society.