Bioelectric Effect of a Microcurrent Toothbrush on Plaque Removal.

Ji-Hyun Lee,Jin-Hee Ha

doi:10.3390/ijerph18168255

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a microcurrent toothbrush (approved by the US Food and Drug Administration [FDA]), which employs a superimposed alternating and direct electric current, named as a Proxywave® technology, similar to the intensity of the biocurrent, in plaque removal and reducing gingivitis by biofilm removal through the bioelectric effect. This study enrolled 40 volunteers with gingivitis. Dental observations were made every two weeks, before and after the use of each toothbrush. We randomly assigned participants into two groups: one group used the Proxywave® toothbrush (PB) for two weeks followed by the control toothbrush (CB) for two weeks, while the other group used the CB for two weeks followed by the PB. The participants had a two-week washout period. If the toothbrush used earlier has had an effect on the bacterial flora in the oral cavity, this is to remove this effect and return it to its previous state. During each dental visit, we recorded plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI) scores. The PI and GI scores were significantly lower in both the PB and the CB (p < 0.05). Considering the PI, there was no significant difference between the toothbrushes on all the surfaces. Considering the GI, the PB showed a significant decrease in the interproximal surface, compared to the CB (p < 0.05). The PB showed a significant decrease in the interproximal GI and had a beneficial effect in the interproximal area where the bristles could not reach. No adverse events were observed in the participants during the clinical trial. The microcurrent toothbrush is a device that can be safely used for plaque removal.

Highlights

Plaque is defined as a deposit, mainly composed of bacteria, that forms a biofilm by adhering to the tooth surfaces, restorations, and other prosthetic appliances [1]
There was no difference in the plaque index (PI) between the control toothbrush (CB) and Proxywave® toothbrush (PB); we observed a difference in the Gingival Index (GI)
There is a need for additional research on the size of the toothbrush head and bristles, considering the length of time in which the Proxywave® could maximize the effect in the area receiving electromagnetic waves. Both CB and PB showed a significant reduction in plaque and gingival inflammation following brushing, and the interproximal GI was significantly decreased in the PB

Summary

Introduction

Plaque is defined as a deposit, mainly composed of bacteria, that forms a biofilm by adhering to the tooth surfaces, restorations, and other prosthetic appliances [1]. Experimental gingivitis studies by Löe et al identified that plaque is the root cause of the progression of gingivitis and periodontitis, which presents as the inflammation and destruction of periodontal tissues. Accumulation of bacterial plaque causes clinical signs of gingivitis within 10 days [2,3]. To control and prevent periodontal disease, it is necessary to prevent plaque formation on the tooth surface or eliminate it before inflammatory changes occur in the gingiva [4]. Effective daily bacterial plaque removal is essential to control periodontal disease [5]. The most common and reliable method of plaque control is mechanically cleaning the oral tissues using a toothbrush and oral hygiene aids [6,7]. Since its public introduction in the 1960s, the electric toothbrush has greatly advanced in its shape and movement pattern

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