A comparative study on required forces for the passage of three different dental flosses at interproximal contacts

A comparative study on required forces for the passage of three different dental flosses at interproximal contacts Dr. M. Ketabi* - Dr. P. Mirzakoocheki** - Dr. S. Zandiye*** * - Assistant Professor of Periodontics Dept. - Faculty of Dentistry – Khorasgan Islamic Azad University. ** -Assistant Professor of Operative Dentistry Dept. - Faculty of Dentistry - Khorasgan Islamic Azad University. ***- Dentist. Background and Aim: Excess force while using dental floss may injure gums and lead to the formation of gingival clefts. Moreover, it seems that dental floss materials play an important role in the required forces for interproximal passages. The aim of this study was to compare the amount of forces required for the passage of three different dental flossed namely Mina and G.U.M made of nylon and Oral – B made of PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene). Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, the forces required for the interproximal passage of three above – mentioned flosses were measured using digital force measurer at 14 contacts between the first premolars from one side to the other of both jaws, of 30 subjects, age ranging from 18 to 35 years. Measurement procedures were similar for all three types of flosses and the forces were ex-pressed in Newton. The mean values were statistically analyzed by one way ANOVA and Hot scheffe tests.Results: The results showed that the amount of required force was significantly lower for PTFE (1.89 N) than Mina (2.89 N) and G.U.M (3.10 N). Moreover, maxillary interproximal forces were significantly less than mandibular ones: 2.24 N versus 3.01 N, P < 0.05. Conclusion: It seems that PTFE dental flosses, due to less required forces and easier manipu-lation, are preferred to nylon flosses by patients. Key words: Dental floss – PTFE – Nylon – Interproximal contact – Force exertion