In response, the United States federal government admitted to Associated Press reporters that the effectiveness of flossing has never been researched, as required by law for public health recommendations. So the AP dug up 25 studies over the past decade that add up to “don’t bother flossing” – and dropped a story that’s gone viral.
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One review conducted a year ago said: “The majority of available studies fail to demonstrate that flossing is generally effective in plaque removal”. Only about 40 percent said they flossed their teeth every day. The findings contradict the accepted advice on dental health with practitioners, floss manufacturers and other organisations urging people to floss.
However, the Quebec group still advises people to floss.
Wayne Aldredge, president of the American Academy of Periodontology, acknowledges the weak scientific evidence.
So do you really need to floss your teeth? “In the absence of quality research, patients should continue to include flossing as a part of their daily oral hygiene habit”.
Flossing can also occasionally cause harm, with a poor technique leading to damaged gums and teeth. However, the reviewers ranked the evidence as “very unreliable”. Some dentists say flossing helps protect your teeth and keep your gums healthy. Aldredge said he encourages patients to floss, even with the shaky evidence.
According to CNBC News, in 2015, the AP asked for evidence of dental floss’ effectiveness from the departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture. Peck acknowledged that flossing does not remove plaque, but said it is vital to remove objects from in between the teeth.
Studies that have looked at the health effects of flossing seem poorly designed, too small, or improperly conducted, the AP reported. The ADA tells the AP it doesn’t profit from the evaluations, but the AP notes that companies are allowed to design their studies.
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Dr Byrne, who specialises in the area of peridontology (gum disease), said that in terms of dental decay reducing the frequency of sugar intake is vital and the most important factor in minimising the risk of decay.
