Comparison of Plaque Removal Efficacy of a Novel Flossing Agent with the Conventional Floss: A Clinical Study

INTRODUCTION: The various methods for plaque control include mechanical plaque control methods which comprises use of toothbrushes, flosses, interdental brushes, and chemical plaque control which includes mouthwashes, dentrifices. The need for the study was to prove the efficacy of flossing in children using gumchucks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total sample size of 24 children age groups 6–12 years according to chronological age were selected. In 12 patients, flossing using gumchucks was done and in 12 patients flossing using unwaxed floss without handle was done. Proximal plaque index was taken at 0,2,4,6 weeks to assess the efficacy of both types of floss in removal of interproximal plaque. At the end of 6 weeks, patient's parents were asked to fill up the questionnaire. RESULTS: In the intragroup comparison for gumchucks, significant plaque reductions were found at 4 and 6 weeks. In the intragroup comparison for unwaxed floss, significant reduction for plaque marginal index were recorded from baseline to 2 and 4 weeks. In the intergroup comparison, significant reduction in plaque index was recorded at 4 and 6 weeks. CONCLUSION: Gumchucks have the high efficacy of plaque removal as well as easy in use for children routinely. Also when surveyed majority of the patents preferred gumchucks if available in the stores. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Kiran SDP, Ghiya K, Makwani D, Bhatt R, Patel M, Srivastava M. Comparison of Plaque Removal Efficacy of a Novel Flossing Agent with the Conventional Floss: A Clinical Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent, 2018;11(6):474-478