Figure 2. Flossing and interproximal dental caries—fixed-effects meta-analysis and Forrest plot of the relative risks and risk differences.(AQ)

a Fluoride Topical fluoride exposure was categorized as not recommended (--), recommended to a subgroup or the whole cohort but with no compliance measures (–), recommended and compliance assessed (+), or delivered under supervised conditions (++).

b Oral hygiene was similarly classified as no instructions provided (--), instructions provided but compliance not measured (–), instructions provided and compliance measured by plaque scores or gingival bleeding scores (+), or provided under supervision (++).

c Test for overall effect: Z = 2.54 (P = 0.01) and test for heterogeneity: Chi² = 16.77, df = 5 (P = 0.005), I² = 70.2%.

d Test for overall effect: 3.88 (P = 0.0001) and test for heterogeneity: Chi² = 9.37, df = 5 (P = 0.10), I² = 46.6%.

e RR: Relative Risk.

f RD: Risk Difference.

g CI: Confidence intervals.

h The publication suggests a score of (--), while a personal communication suggests a score of (–).