A new report found no scientific evidence to back up the claim long made by many dentists that flossing is good for teeth, but at least two dental groups say people should still floss.

The Associated Press investigated the effectiveness of flossing after learning the federal government had quietly removed its endorsement of the practice from its dietary guidelines. In a report released Tuesday, the news agency said it could find no credible evidence that flossing helps fight tooth and gum disease, even after contacting government experts and two major dental organizations.

"The two leading professional groups—the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology, for specialists in gum disease and implants—cited other studies as proof of their claims that flossing prevents buildup of gunk known as plaque, early gum inflammation called gingivitis, and tooth decay," the AP reported. "However, most of these studies used outdated methods or tested few people. Some lasted only two weeks, far too brief for a cavity or dental disease to develop." http://apne.ws/2allcdn

Both organizations later released statements urging people to floss. Neither pointed to studies showing its effectiveness, with AAP acknowledging the lack of quality research on the subject.

"Much of the current evidence does not utilize a large sample size or examine gum health over a significant amount of time," AAP said. "Additionally, many of the existing studies do not measure true markers of periodontal health such as inflammation or clinical attachment loss."

Still, AAP encourages flossing because it noted that plaque bacteria could accumulate if left unchecked.

"Flossing allows for the removal of plaque bacteria and debris from areas in the mouth that brushing alone cannot reach," it said. http://bit.ly/2aQ4O9S

ADA made a similar argument, pointing out that more than 500 bacterial species can be found in plaque. Some are good and some are bad, it said.

"To maintain good oral health, the American Dental Association recommends brushing for two minutes twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth once a day with an interdental cleaner (such as floss) and regular dental visits advised by your dentist," it said. http://bit.ly/2asSJ78

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