Federal Government, ADA Emphasize Importance Of Flossing

The ADA News (8/2, Manchir) reported the US Department of Health and Human Services has released a statement calling flossing “an important oral hygiene practice” and not mentioning it in the federal dietary guidelines released in 2015 does not imply otherwise. The article added, “Although dental floss — along with brushing teeth and using fluoridated water — was mentioned in past editions of the guidelines (in both 2005 and 2010), the statement said ‘it was most likely identified as a supporting recommendation along with brushing teeth, with the primary emphasis being on the nutrition-based recommendation to reduce added sugars.’” The Associated Press had noted the omission in a story questioning the benefits of using dental floss. In response to the news story, the Association also released a statement, emphasizing the federal government and the ADA stand behind reiterating its recommendations to clean between teeth with an interdental cleaner once a day. The ADA stated, “The bottom line for dentists and patients is that a lack of strong evidence doesn’t equate to a lack of effectiveness. As doctors of oral health, dentists are in the best position to advise their patients on oral hygiene practices because they know their patient’s oral health status and health history.”