Resumen

CASALS-PEIDRO, Elías. Oral hygiene habits in spanish school children and adults. RCOE [online]. 2005, vol.10, n.4, pp.389-401. ISSN 1138-123X.

Introduction: according to the available scientific evidence, the mechanical and chemical control of the bacterial plaque biofilm supplemented by the use of local fluorides is established as the cornerstone in the maintenance of healthy teeth. The International Dental Federation (FDI) establishes dental brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste twice per day as the basic personal dental tooth cleaning pattern, which could be improved with the use of additional elements of interproximal hygiene (as dental floss or interproximal brushes) or the adjunctive action of mouthwashes (antiseptic or fluoridated). Material and method: data are compiled regarding oral hygiene habits of the Spanish population (schoolchildren and adults) by means of health questionnaires and through market research of product sales (toothbrushes and mouthrinses) and are related to the epidemiology of caries and periodontal disease. Results: personal tooth cleaning habits in Spain, in spite of a positive evolution in the last years, are still far from the pattern of desirable excellence and among the worst of developed countries patterns. Conclusions: in order to obtain a better oral health of the Spanish population, their habits of oral hygiene must be improved.

Palabras clave : Oral health; Toothbrushing; Mouthwashes; Dental floss; Home care dental devices.

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