Plaque removal efficacy of two types of sonic toothbrushes

Abstract

Plaque control is an essential aspect of periodontal treatment; however, it is difficult for patients with periodontitis to master manual tooth brushing skills. Therefore, we investigated the plaque-removing efficacy of two types of sonic electric toothbrushes for simple and efficient plaque control in patients with moderate chronic periodontitis. The plaque-removing effects of the two types of sonic electric toothbrushes (PRINIA^®slim and Sonicare^®FlexCare) was investigated in 40 patients with moderate chronic periodontitis who had never received instructions on intraoral cleaning. All patients provided their consent for participation in the study. The brushing method instructed the scrabbing method in the manual tooth brush first, and to use only the vibration of the machine with one of the sonic electric tooth brush. The plaque removal rates were evaluated using the plaque control record proposed by OʼLeary et al. before and after brushing with each of the toothbrushes. In addition, the patients were also asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their impressions on the use of the toothbrushes. We found that the plaque removal efficacy of both the sonic electric toothbrushes was similar or superior to that of manual toothbrushes; also, no significant difference in the plaque control efficacy was noted between the two sonic toothbrushes. Furthermore, the results of the questionnaire indicated that both sonic electric toothbrushes were smooth to use, which was better than the case for manual toothbrushes. In conclusion, the present study suggests that sonic electric toothbrushes are useful devices for patients with moderate chronic periodontitis. However, it is insufficient to instruct patients only once, and repeated brushing instructions are important for obtaining excellent plaque control with sonic electric toothbrushes. Nihon Shishubyo Gakkai Kaishi (J Jpn Soc Periodontol) 56(2)：182-192, 2014.