Building better habits

Daily interdental cleaning is recommended by the NHS, as it helps manage the build-up of biofilm, and can reduce the likelihood of developing gingivitis and periodontitis. However, in a recent UK survey, only 37 per cent of those aged 55 and over claimed to floss their teeth daily, and just 18 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds. It seems the interdental cleaning habit isn’t sticking here in the UK.

Dentists know that the best chance of successful oral health in adulthood is given by building up positive dental care habits, including interdental cleaning, in childhood. Even if we were lucky enough to have had this instilled when we were growing up, the challenges around building certain healthy habits are something all of us can relate to. Maintaining a robust dental care routine, including interdental cleaning, can be even harder for some patients with impaired executive function.