We hear from periodontist Varkha Rattu on why interdental brushes are key for thorough oral hygiene practices.
Effective plaque control is essential for preventing periodontal disease (and other subsequential health issues) – and yet, one of the most common questions dental professionals frequently hear is, ‘Do I really have to brush my teeth?’
The answer is an indisputable, yes – but more importantly, brushing with a regular toothbrush alone simply is not enough. Traditional toothbrushes primarily clean only three surfaces of the tooth, leaving the interdental spaces vulnerable to bacterial buildup.
Fortunately, where regular toothbrushes have their limits, interdental brushes (IDBs) allow patients to clean those interdental areas. When bacteria are left undisturbed between teeth, it can contribute to serious oral health problems including gingivitis and periodontitis (forms of gum disease). As such, it is hugely important to remind patients of the importance of thorough oral hygiene practices.
Dr Varkha Rattu, known for her interests in periodontitis and diabetes and integrated healthcare, lectures nationally and internationally on these topics. In 2022, Dr Rattu (working alongside TePe) published the ‘Periodontitis and Diabetes: Your Guide To Better Gum Health’, leaflet which is now available in diabetes departments of select hospitals as well as in dental practices across the UK.
As a market-leading oral healthcare brand in the UK, TePe offers a wide range of oral hygiene products, including award-winning interdental brushes (IDBs). Unlike regular brushing, IDBs in conjunction with brushing will allow patients to effectively clean all five surfaces of the tooth – therefore disrupting bacterial colonies and preventing dental disease.
Understanding periodontitis
Periodontal diseases are a common yet serious oral health condition that are rapidly increasing in case numbers across the UK due to a lack of awareness of preventative measures amongst patients. Periodontitis (irreversible gum disease) involves the body’s immune-inflammatory response and a dysbiotic biofilm (imbalance in the types and amounts of bacteria in the mouth). It is characterised by the deterioration of the periodontal tissues and the bone supporting the teeth.
Whilst many are aware that this condition affects the mouth, it has also been associated with other systemic health problems including diabetes, heart disease and respiratory infections. This may be via mechanisms involving oral bacteria entering the bloodstream and/ or increase in the body’s systemic inflammatory burden.
Treating and preventing periodontal diseases
The good news is that periodontal diseases can be managed through proper oral hygiene care. TePe’s IDBs are an ideal tool to aid the prevention and treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis, by helping to disrupt bacterial growth in hard-to-reach areas. For those already experiencing early signs of periodontal disease (gingivitis), regular use of interdental brushes can reduce inflammation and prevent further damage.
The importance of preventative care
Although periodontal diseases are treatable, it is important to regularly advise patients that prevention is key. Interdental cleaning plays a critical role in maintaining optimal oral health. By incorporating interdental cleaning into daily oral care routines, patients can avoid the potentially serious consequences of untreated periodontal problems and promote overall wellness.
TePe’s interdental brushes are readily available to purchase in a selection of sizes and styles to suit a wide variety of oral hygiene needs. Patients can purchase TePe’s IBDs directly from TePe Direct – in clinic, or from a reputable retailer or pharmacy.
For more expert advice from Dr Varkha Rattu, please refer to The Periodontitis-Diabetes Hub (www.periodiabetes.org), which will be live by the end of 2024. This informative hub will provide free educational initiatives and education for patients, dental and medical professionals.
This article is sponsored by TePe.
