The effect of different methods of interdental cleaning

Three experimental studies were carried out to compare the effect of different implements recommended for interdental cleaning. In young adults, with healthy periodontal tissues, dental floss was superior to toothpicks in removing plaque from the lingual parts of the interproximal surfaces. The use of a single‐tufted brush as a supplement to the toothpicks compensated for the lack of effectiveness of toothpicks alone. In wide‐open interproximal areas, following periodontal destruction, the interdental brush is the most suitable implement to remove bacterial plaque.