CATEGORY AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST83 CLINICAL The overlooked challenge is between teeth One very important limitation of toothbrushing is its inability to adequately clean interdental areas. These areas are: u The most frequently plaque-retentive surfaces u Common sites for initiation of gingivitis and periodontitis Evidence shows that toothbrushing alone is insufficient to remove plaque between the teeth. In contrast, the additional use of interdental brushes significantly improves plaque reduction compared with brushing alone.3 Furthermore, interdental brushes are: u More effective than floss or wooden dental sticks for plaque removal u Associated with improvements in clinical periodontal parameters3 This reinforces a critical clinical message: toothbrushing must be complemented daily by effective interdental cleaning. Driving behaviour change is our most important intervention While recommending tools is essential, the real challenge lies in changing patient behaviour. Even when patients understand the importance of oral hygiene, adherence to interdental cleaning remains low. Unlike toothbrushing, it is not yet a fully established daily habit for many individuals. Dental professionals play a key role by: u Assessing individual risk and tailoring recommendations u Selecting appropriate interdental sizes and aids u Demonstrating correct technique u Setting realistic and achievable goals u Reinforcing behaviour at every recall visit Behaviour change is not achieved through information alone. It requires repetition, motivation, and support. From routine to prevention of oral and systemic disease Effective plaque control is not only about preventing gingivitis or periodontitis – it also contributes to broader health outcomes. Periodontitis has been linked to systemic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. By improving patients’ daily oral hygiene practices, we contribute to: u Reduced systemic inflammatory burden u Keeping teeth and gums healthy u Enhanced quality of life This positions toothbrushing instruction as a preventive intervention with both oral and systemic benefits. Tips to bring into the practice u Toothbrushing reduces plaque, but effectiveness varies widely u Technique, duration, and brush design all influence outcomes u Most patients require active coaching to brush effectively u Toothbrushing alone is not enough; add interdental cleaning daily u Manual toothbrushes remain a highly effective tool when used properly u The ultimate goal is not just instruction, but a healthy habit that lasts over time Conclusion Toothbrushing is a cornerstone of keeping teeth and gums healthy, yet its success depends on how well patients perform it in their daily lives. As dental professionals, we have a responsibility to move beyond general advice and provide structured, evidence-based guidance tailored to each individual. By combining effective toothbrushing techniques with interdental cleaning and behavioural support, we can significantly improve both oral and general health outcomes for our patients. u References: 1. Slot DE et al. The efficacy of manual toothbrushes following a brushing exercise: a systematic review. Int J Dent Hyg. 2012. 2. Lyne A et al. Combining evidence-based healthcare with environmental sustainability: using the toothbrush as a model. Br Dent J. 2020 Sept;229(5):303-309. 3. Slot DE et al. The efficacy of interdental brushes on plaque and parameters of periodontal inflammation: a systematic review. Int J Dent Hyg. 2008. (summarised in Evidence-Based Dentistry). Available from leading dental wholesalers EasyFit™ TePeasy it One brush for small and medium gaps Brushes away plaque between teeth One brush covers ISO 2-4* *Indicative sizing vs ISO sizes for interdental brushes Simple for you and your patients
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTc3NDk3Mw==