title: Plaque-removing effect of dental floss and toothpicks in children 12-13 years of age.
abstract: The aim of the present study was to assess the cleaning effect of dental floss and toothpicks on interproximal surfaces. The plaque situation was assessed in a group of children 12-13 years of age by the Patient Hygiene Performance Index (PHPI). It was found that dental floss has a greater plaque-removing effect of the interproximal areas than toothpicks, predominantly on the mesial surfaces of the teeth.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D003742:Dental Devices, Home Care; D003753:Dental Health Surveys; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D007557:Israel; D009910:Oral Hygiene