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The Importance of Interdental Cleaning for Preventing Tooth Loss

Recent findings from a study conducted by Sunstar Group in collaboration with Jichi Medical University have revealed that the longer individuals utilize interdental cleaning devices, the lower their risk of tooth loss. Analyzing five years of dental health records from Sunstar employees, the study highlights a clear connection between prolonged use of these cleaning tools and improved dental retention.

Study Background and Objective

Tooth loss can significantly impact not only oral health but also overall body health, increasing risks for systemic diseases and reducing quality of life. While previous clinical trials demonstrated that interdental cleaning devices are effective for preventing periodontal disease and cavities over short periods, there was a remarkable lack of research into their long-term benefits. This study examined the correlation between the duration of interdental cleaning device use and the incidence of tooth loss among Sunstar employees.

Participants and Methodology

A total of 845 employees (average age 47.8 years) who underwent dental health examinations from 2012 to 2017 participated in this study. Data was collected regarding the type of interdental cleaning device used (dental floss or interdental brushes), years of use (1 year or less, 2-3 years, 4-5 years), and instances of tooth loss. Participants were classified into healthy and periodontal disease groups based on their Community Periodontal Index (CPI) scores—a measure indicating the presence of periodontal pockets. Regression analysis, adjusted for factors like age, gender, and dental history, was then used to assess the association between the use of interdental cleaners and tooth loss.

Key Findings

Participant Characteristics

The study found significant differences between the classified groups. The periodontal disease group, which included 200 participants, had a lower proportion of women, were older, and had more dental caries experience than the healthy group of 645 individuals. Notably, the periodontal group used interdental brushes at higher rates over extended periods, while those in the healthy group predominantly used dental floss.

Correlation Between Tooth Loss and Interdental Device Use

Among the healthy participants, those using dental floss for 4-5 years saw an odds ratio of 0.42 for tooth loss compared to those using it for 0-1 years. In the periodontal group, users of interdental brushes for a similar period had an odds ratio of 0.38, indicating that longer usage correlates with a reduced risk of tooth loss.

Graph illustrating correlation between tooth loss and duration of interdental cleaning device use.

Conclusions

The study confirms that longer use of interdental cleaning devices directly correlates with a lower risk of tooth loss. Results suggest that regular interdental cleaning is crucial for maintaining dental health, especially when considering the type of device relative to an individual's periodontal condition. This investigation is among the few to effectively illustrate the impact of long-term use on tooth retention, reinforcing the necessity of daily oral care practices.

Future Directions

Based on these findings, there is a call to action for larger-scale studies employing diverse data to establish optimal interdental cleaning practices tailored for individual oral health conditions. Additionally, integrating these practices with regular dental check-ups may enhance oral health guidance further.

Commentary from Experts

Dr. Kyoko Nakao, from the Department of Community Medicine at Jichi Medical University, remarked on the broader implications of dental health for preventing lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes, and its impact on elderly cognitive functions and quality of life. This study emphasizes the importance of consistent oral care from a young age, reinforcing the message that everyday interdental cleaning is vital for preserving healthy teeth.

Publication Reference

• - Title: The importance of using interdental cleaning devices on prevention of tooth loss in an employee population: a cross-sectional study
• - Authors: Kyoko Nakao, Miki Ishikawa, Takako Yasuda, Yuji Furui, Kazuhiko Kotani
• - Published in: BMC Oral Health – DOI: 10.1186/s12903-024-05308-0

About Sunstar Group

Sunstar Group operates globally with a focus on oral care, health foods, and cosmetics through Sunstar SA (Switzerland). The group also oversees industrial products and services via Sunstar Singapore Pte. Ltd. As we navigate an era where longevity is increasingly feasible, Sunstar aims to bridge oral health with comprehensive well-being, fostering healthier lifestyles through effective oral hygiene practices.