Isn’t mechanical cleaning enough?

Mechanical cleaning is at the heart of good oral hygiene,¹ but common myths persist about its limitations and the role of adjuncts like mouthwash. So, what’s the reality?

Mechanical cleaning – brushing and interdental cleaning – has long been the foundation of biofilm disruption and oral health maintenance. Yet, while some patients can achieve health through effective mechanical cleaning alone, the reality is that, for many, it simply isn’t enough.¹

The need for personalised care

Patients vary in their ability to remove biofilm effectively due to factors such as dexterity, medical conditions, medication-induced xerostomia, and anatomical challenges.² Maintenance patients, particularly those with a history of periodontal disease, are at risk of relapse, even with diligent brushing and flossing.³

This is where personalised care becomes essential. The European Federation of Periodontology’s (EFP) S3-level guideline reinforces that adjunctive chemical plaque control can play a valuable role alongside mechanical cleaning, particularly for patients at risk of disease progression.⁴

The role of adjunctive mouthwash

The British Society of Periodontology’s (BSP) adolopment of the European S3-level guideline provides clear recommendations for periodontitis management, incorporating adjunctive chemical plaque control where appropriate.

These guidelines indicate that mouthwashes with evidence-based formulations may complement mechanical cleaning, reducing plaque accumulation, particularly in patients struggling to maintain optimal oral hygiene.⁵

Find out what the evidence really says about mechanical cleaning and adjunctive care. Discover expert-led myth-busting, clinical insights, and practical strategies in the brand-new LISTERINE® Oral Hygiene Digital Roadshow.

Stay ahead with the latest research and guidance from leading voices in periodontology – access it now on Dentistry.co.uk.

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References

1. Boyle P et al. Mouthwash use and the prevention of plaque, gingivitis and caries. Head & Neck Oral Diseases 2014; 20(1): 1–76.
2. Desai JP, Nair RU. Oral health factors related to rapid oral health deterioration among older adults: a narrative review. J Clin Med 2023; 12: 3202. doi: 10.3390/jcm12093202
3. Dutta S et al. Supportive periodontal therapy. Medical and Research Publications 2021, p37.
4. Sanz M et al. Treatment of stage I–III periodontitis—the EFP S3 level clinical practice guideline. J Clin Periodontol. 2020; 47: 4–60.
5. West N et al. BSP implementation of European S3 level evidence-based treatment guidelines for stage I–III periodontitis in UK clinical practice. Journal of Dentistry 2021; 106: 103562.