Comparison of Power versus Manual Toothbrush in Reducing Gingivitis

Abstract

Introduction: Dental plaque is a bacterial biofilm consisting of complex communities of bacterial species. Materials and Methods: The study was a single-blind, parallel arm, randomized, controlled interventional trial. Total 46 male and female subjects (32 female and 16 males) with a mean age of 26 years were enrolled according to the admission criteria and accepted into this study. The subjects were assigned to either the powered brush or the manual brush based on levels of inflammation (% BOP, MGI-52), and plaque levels (53, 54, 55) using screening data. Results: BOP decreased from baseline 22% to 17% at 2 weeks and 16% at 4 weeks for Power users (Group A). For Manual users (Group B), BOP decreased from baseline 27% to 21% at 2 weeks and 19% at 4 weeks; so both groups had a reduction in BOP but there was no statistical significance for either group. Conclusion: Both groups demonstrated a reduction in signs of gingivitis (BOP and GI) in this non-flossing population after being repeatedly trained in toothbrush use over a 4-week period. Both toothbrushes were equally effective in reducing overnight plaque as a single use exercise after initial professional training.