New Study of Brushing and Flossing

In a new study published in the Journal of Periodontology, researchers found that tongue and tooth brushing in combination with dental flossing significantly decreased gingival bleeding by 38% after a 2-week oral hygiene program. Halitosis was also reduced. In the group that did not floss as part of their daily routine, gingival bleeding sites increased by almost 4%. The study involved 51 sets of twins between the ages of 12 and 21 years of age who were examined for gingival bleeding and halitosis. Each set of twins was then divided into 2 groups. One group of twins manually brushed their teeth and tongue twice a day for 2 weeks. The second group of twins was given the same instructions in addition to using dental floss twice a day. After 2 weeks, the twins were examined again for gingival bleeding and halitosis. Twins were examined in this study because each individual set shares the same environmental factors such as dietary habits and health and life practices, thereby constituting a perfect case-control matched study. 

“Gingival bleeding and halitosis is often the first sign of poor oral hygiene that may eventually lead to further periodontal problems,” said Walter A. Bretz, DDS, PhD, Department of Cariology & Comprehensive Care, New York University College of Dentistry, and mentor of the study. “A good way to prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay is through at-home oral hygiene care and routine dental visits.”