“Gum disease may lead to stroke or cardio-vascular disease,” say the authors of a new clinical study published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation (Feb 8, 2005). “And because gum infections are preventable and treatable, taking care of your oral health could very well have a significant impact on your cardiovascular health,” says lead researcher Dr. Moise Desvarieux.For the 75 percent of adults who have gum disease,
Clinical research demonstrates that BrushPicks significantly reduce gingivitis (the first and only completely reversible stage of gum disease) and bleeding better than floss. And BrushPicks reduce plaque as well. The research appeared in The Journal of Clinical Dentistry (January 2002).
The double-blind clinical trial was conducted at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine to evaluate the two products in the reduction of plaque, gingivitis and bleeding. The superiority of BrushPicks over floss was most dramatic in reduction of bleeding: “Considering that bleeding is an important attribute of the status of soft tissue health, it is important to note that the reduction in bleeding sites for the BrushPicks subjects went from about 23% at the beginning of the study to 4% at four weeks. This dramatic decrease in acute bleeding was even apparent by 2 weeks, where the rate had fallen to 8%.” In contrast, dental floss had no significant impact on bleeding over the course of the study.
“The significant differences in oral health for the group using BrushPicks are attributed to the flexibility and unique design of the device, and the ease of use, compared to flossing,” the experts reported in “Efficacy and Safety of BrushPicks, a New Cleaning Aid, Compared to the Use of Glide Floss.”
The space between teeth is “one of the most difficult areas for people to keep clean and free of decaying food and plaque organisms,” the researchers note. “As a result, the area is prone to the development of periodontal disease and caries. It has been documented that if the area can be kept clean, periodontal disease is reduced.” The experts also point to research demonstrating that “standard manual toothbrushes do not effectively clean between the teeth.”
Flexible plastic BrushPicks have distinctly different features at either end. One end is a narrow 3-sided blade that slides comfortably into the gaps between teeth. Its grooved edging helps dislodge particles, remove plaque and massage gums. The other end is a narrow probe with six bristles. Moving the probe in and out, or twirling it in the space between teeth assures that no particles will be left behind to ruin one’s smile or breath. 2½-inch BrushPicks safely go where wooden toothpicks can’t, and they won’t damage dental work.
For more information, visit www.BrushPicks.com
© 2005 HealthNewsDigest.com