Reduction Of Dental Plaque Research Articles

A novel toothbrush with a thin-head, slender-neck and super-tapered bristles enhancing accessibility in hard-to-reach areas: a crossover randomized trial

BackgroundToothbrushing is the most commonly used method to physically remove dental plaque. However, there are many areas of the mouth that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush. The type of toothbrush is a critical factor influencing the effectiveness of oral care. The purpose of the study was to evaluate a toothbrush with a thin head, slender-neck and super-tapered bristles to target hard-to-reach areas in the oral cavity for reducing dental plaque and gingivitis.MethodsThis crossover study included 58 adults aged 20 years and older. All participants were randomly assigned to use test and control toothbrushes (the latter had a normal head and round bristles) for two 4-week phases. Participants brushed their teeth twice daily in their habitual manner. At the start and end of each phase the Silness-Lӧe plaque index (PI), Lӧe -Silness gingival index (GI) and bleeding-on-probing index (BOP) were assessed and performed plaque fluorescence tests using quantitative light-induced fluorescence technology.ResultsAfter using the test toothbrush, PI, GI and BOP decreased by 25%, 30% and 48%, respectively (P < 0.05). For the rearmost molars, PI, GI and BOP decreased by 18%, 26% and 47%, respectively (P < 0.05). For the implants, GI and BOP decreased by 31% and 57%, respectively (P < 0.05). The plaque fluorescence tests indicated that after using the test toothbrush, the dental plaque area for the anterior teeth and the simple plaque score for the rearmost molars decreased by 25% (P < 0.05) and 14% (P = 0.527), respectively.ConclusionsThe test toothbrush was markedly better than the control toothbrush at reducing dental plaque and gingivitis. In particular, the test toothbrush produced an excellent reduction in dental plaque and gingivitis for the rearmost molars and the implants.Trial registrationKCT0009669, retrospectively registered 02/08/2024.

Herbal Formulation of High Phenols and Flavonoids with the Extract of Phyllanthus emblica, Punica granatum, and Illicium verum and Assessment of Hematotoxicity Assay: An In vitro Study.

A growing number of consumers are embracing the philosophy that natural products are better for their health and the environment. As such, they are seeking products they perceive to be safer, healthier, and without toxic chemical or synthetic ingredients. Natural products are gentle enough for daily use and provide a less abrasive alternative to more potent prescription formulations meant for short-term use. Herbal antimicrobial and antioxidant mouth rinses are considered effective adjuncts to toothbrushing and flossing for patients having gingivitis who have undergone implant treatment, providing a clinically significant benefit in the reduction of dental plaque, and also being antioxidant in nature. Three types of plant species were taken into consideration. Phyllanthus emblica fruit, Punica granatum flower, and Illicium verum fruit and seed were collected from the native trees of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. We conclude that P. emblica fruit, P. granatum flower, and I. verum fruit and seed exhibit large amounts of flavonoids, phenolics, and tannins. This study also shows that these samples can be used in clinical practice as it has less hematotoxixity percentage. P. granatum that is a pomegranate flower shows a high positive percentage in the presence of flavonoids and phenols. These plant extracts can be used in further studies and in clinical use as mouthwash or topical gel by adding preservatives and flavoring agents.

Comparative Evaluation of Herbal Versus Non-herbal Dentifrice in Maintaining Oral Health of Young Adults.

Dental plaque may be attributed as a precursor to various oral health problems like dental caries, periodontal disease, halitosis, etc. With an ever-increasing awareness about the adverse effects of chemical formulations, emphasis is now being laid on the usage of herbal ingredients, as they are safer for long-term use in addition to their medicinal benefits. The present study aims to assess the anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory efficacy of herbal toothpaste compared to synthetic toothpaste among 20-40-year-old patients in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. In this study, 130 subjects aged between 20 and 40 years with poor oral hygiene status and signs of gingival inflammation corresponding with chronic marginal gingivitis were selected. Subjects in Group 1 were prescribed herbal toothpaste (KUDOS Ayurveda), whereas patients in Group 2 were administered non-herbal toothpaste. Clinical parameters of gingival health specifically gingival index (GI), patient hygiene performance (PHP), and approximate plaque index (API) were recorded at baseline, 14 days, 28 days, and 42 days. Chi-square test, student-independent t-test, and paired t-test were performed to find significant differences in various variables between the two groups at different follow-up visits. At the end of the study, a significant reduction in GI and API scores was obtained, along with increased PHP scores.The p-value was set at 0.05, and the power of the study was set at 0.95. There was a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in GI and API and an improvement in PHP scores at various time intervals in Group 1 as compared to Group 2. Conclusion: Regular application of herbal extract dentifrices for 42 days provided a significant reduction of dental plaque and improvement in overall gingival health without any adverse effects. This instilled motivation in the patients to uphold proper oral hygiene. Hence, herbal dentifrices could be prescribed as an adjunct to periodontal therapy in the maintenance phase.

Comparison of the effect of licorice and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the oral health of intubated patients in the intensive care unit

BackgroundChlorhexidine mouthwash is a common oral hygiene product used in intensive care units, but it may have some adverse effects. Licorice, a natural herb, could be a potential alternative to chlorhexidine. However, the effect of licorice mouthwash on the oral health of intubated patients has not been studied yet. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of licorice and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the oral health of intubated patients.MethodsThis was a triple-blind clinical trial. The sample included 130 intubated patients admitted to an intensive care unit in Iran. The samples were selected by convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two groups: A and B. In group A, the main researcher applied 15 ml of 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash after each brushing (twice a day for 5.5 days) and suctioned it after 30 s. In group B, 20% licorice mouthwash was used instead of chlorhexidine. The demographic information questionnaire and the Beck Oral Assessment Scale (BOAS) were completed by one of the nurses before and on the sixth day of the study.ResultsFinally, 60 patients in each group completed the study. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of demographic variables or oral health before the intervention (P > 0.05). The oral health of patients in both the chlorhexidine and liquorice mouthwash groups improved significantly after the intervention (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in oral health between the two groups at postintervention (P = 0.06).ConclusionThe results demonstrated that both mouthwashes exerted a comparable effect on dental and oral health. However, the chlorhexidine mouthwash showed a greater impact on the reduction of dental plaque and the thinning of saliva compared to licorice mouthwash. In essential cases, licorice mouthwash can be employed as an alternative to chlorhexidine.

Healthy Living Movement Assistance to Maintain Dental and Oral Health in Children: A Community Service at SD Negeri 15 Fafanlap, South Misool District, Raja Ampat Regency, Southwest Papua, Indonesia

Optimal dental and oral health is an important aspect in children's growth and development. However, in remote areas such as South Misool, Raja Ampat, access to dental health information and services is still limited. This encourages the need for community service to increase awareness and practice of maintaining dental and oral health in children. This community service was carried out at SD Negeri 15 Fafanlap involving 120 students in grades 1-6. The methods used include: (1) interactive education about dental and oral health, (2) demonstration and training on correct tooth brushing practices, (3) distribution of free brushes and toothpaste, (4) simple dental examinations, and (5) monitoring periodically for 6 months. After the intervention, there was a significant increase in students' knowledge about dental and oral health. The ability to brush teeth properly also increases rapidly, as indicated by a reduction in dental plaque. In addition, positive behavioral changes occurred with increased frequency of tooth brushing and use of fluoride toothpaste. This community service succeeded in increasing awareness, knowledge and practice of maintaining oral health among children at SD Negeri 15 Fafanlap. It is hoped that the continuation of the program and replication in other areas will have a wider impact on the dental and oral health of Indonesian children.

Evaluation of dental plaque reduction using microcurrent-emitting toothbrushes in orthodontic patients: a randomized, double-blind, crossover clinical trial

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of microcurrent-emitting toothbrushes (MCTs) and ordinary toothbrushes in reducing the dental plaque index (PI) and dental caries activity among orthodontic patients. The evaluation was performed using a crossover study design involving 22 orthodontic patients randomly assigned to the MCT or ordinary toothbrush groups. The participants used the designated toothbrush for 4 weeks and had a 1-week wash-out time before crossover to the other toothbrush. PI (Attin’s index) and dental caries activity were measured at baseline and at the end of each 4-week period. Additionally, patients completed questionnaires to assess patient satisfaction for “freshness in mouth” and “cleansing degree.” The results showed that the MCT group had a significant reduction in PI (p = 0.009), whereas the ordinary toothbrush group did not (p = 0.595). There was no significant difference in the dental caries activity between the two groups (p > 0.05). Patient satisfaction assessment revealed that 65% patients in the MCT group had more than “fair” experience of freshness, in contrast to 50% of patients in the ordinary toothbrush group. Satisfaction with cleansing degree was similar in both groups. Overall, these findings suggest that MCTs are more effective in reducing dental PI than ordinary toothbrushes.

Randomized controlled clinical trial on the efficacy of a novel antimicrobial chewing gum in reducing plaque and gingivitis in adolescent orthodontic patients

ObjectivesChewing gums containing antiseptics or other antimicrobial substances may be effective in reducing plaque and gingivitis. Therefore, the aim of this randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial was to investigate the efficacy of a novel antimicrobial chewing gum containing essential oils (cinnamon, lemon, peppermint) and extracts on reduction of dental plaque and gingivitis as well as on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in adolescent orthodontic patients.Materials52 patients (11-22 years of age) were randomly assigned to use a test chewing gum (COVIDGUM, Clevergum) or a commercially available control chewing gum over a period of 10 days. Approximal plaque index (API), papillary bleeding index (PBI) and an OHRQoL questionnaire for children (COHIP-G19) were assessed at baseline (BL), after 10 days (10d) and 30 days (30d). In addition, oral health and oral hygiene related questions of the COHIP-G19 questionnaire were evaluated separately in subscales at each timepoint. Data were analyzed using non-parametrical statistical procedures (α = 0.05).ResultsAPI and PBI decreased significantly over time from BL to 10d and from BL to 30d in both groups, without significant differences between the groups. In both groups, the COHIP-G19 score, oral health subscale and oral hygiene subscale decreased significantly over time. Regarding the oral hygiene subscale, the test group showed significantly better scores at 30d (p = 0.011).ConclusionBoth chewing gums performed similarly effective in terms of reducing plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation and improving OHRQoL.Clinical relevanceChewing gums without antimicrobial ingredients may be sufficient to decrease plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation.

Magnetic Hydroxyapatite-Coated Iron-Chromium Microspheres for Dental Surface Polishing and Plaque Removal.

This research aimed to engineer magnetic hydroxyapatite-coated iron-chromium (HAp-FeCr) microspheres to enhance dental surface polishing and plaque elimination. Utilizing a tailored sol-gel approach, the HAp-FeCr microspheres were synthesized and exhaustively characterized via scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, ζ-potential, X-ray diffractometry, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy methodologies. Key findings showcased that these microspheres retained their magnetic properties post-HAp coating, as evidenced by the magnetization curves. An innovative magnetic polishing system was developed, incorporating these microspheres and a 2000 rpm magnet. Comparative evaluations between traditional air-powder polishing and the proposed magnetic technique demonstrated the latter's superiority. Notably, the magnetic polishing led to a substantial reduction in dental plaque on the tooth surface, decreasing bacterial adhesion and early biofilm formation by Streptococcus gordonii and Lactobacillus acidophilus, where the most pronounced effects were observed in samples with elevated HAp content. A significant 60% reduction in dental plaque was achieved with the magnetic method relative to air-powder polishing. Furthermore, the HAp-FeCr microspheres' biocompatibility was verified through cytotoxicity tests and animal studies. In essence, the magnetic HAp-FeCr microspheres present a novel and efficient strategy for dental treatments, holding immense potential for improving oral health.

The Use of Patient-Oriented Mobile Phone Apps in Oral Health: Scoping Review.

Oral health is a significant part of general health. Poor oral health can influence an individual's appearance, self-esteem, eating, and speaking. The use of mobile phone apps has been growing in the field of medicine, including dentistry. However, to date, there is no evidence related to the availability of mobile apps focusing on various branches of dentistry. The aim of this study was to review the scientific literature on the use of patient-oriented mobile phone apps in oral health and summarize the key findings. A scoping review of published scientific literature on the use of patient-oriented mobile phone apps in oral health was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute. A search was performed in PubMed and Scopus for studies published between January 2000 and June 2021 that were written in English. All study types except for those reporting developmental protocols were included in this review. In total, 2 reviewers independently screened the studies using the eligibility criteria. The study protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework registries in June 2021. The initial search yielded a total of 977 studies, 45 (4.6%) of which met the inclusion criteria. All the studies (45/45, 100%) were published after 2009. Most studies (31/45, 69%) concerned oral health promotion using mobile phone apps, followed by behavior management (5/45, 11%). More than half (23/45, 51%) of the included studies were conducted in Asian countries. Overall, 31% (14/45) of the studies focused on adolescents. A total of 51% (23/45) of the studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Approximately 39% (9/23) of the included RCT studies reported a substantial reduction in dental plaque, and 26% (6/23) of the studies reported significant improvement in gingival health. Regarding dental anxiety management, 13% (3/23) of the RCT studies reported a significant decrease in mean heart rate and lower Facial Image Scale scores. According to the literature, the use of mobile apps in oral health is increasing among patients, mainly children and adolescents. Many studies that have used mobile apps have focused on promoting oral health. However, other areas such as diagnostic and remote consultations (teledentistry) have until recently been neglected despite their great potential.

Is chewable toothbrush effective in terms of dental plaque reduction in children? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

To systematically evaluate randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on whether a chewable toothbrush (CTB) is more effective than a manual toothbrush (MTB) in terms of full-mouth dental plaque reduction in non-orthodontic children. Six databases were searched by two independent reviewers according to pre-specified eligibility criteria up to October 2022. No restrictions regarding language, date of publication and minimum follow-up period were imposed. The Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias tool (RoB 2.0) was used for quality appraisal and GRADE for assessing the certainty of evidence. Random-effects pairwise meta-analysis compared the dental plaque change scores of CTB and MTB through mean differences (MDs) and associated confidence intervals (95% CI), and sensitivity analysis determined whether an individual study significantly affected the results. Seven eligible RCTs were retrieved, including data of 310 children aged 8-14 years. Five RCTs present some concerns and two have high RoB. No significant difference was detected between toothbrushes in terms of Turesky modification of the Quigley-Hein plaque index reduction (MD=-0.04, 95% CI: -0.26-0.18), with overall very low certainty on evidence. The pooled estimate remains unchanged when any RCT is omitted. There is very low-certainty evidence of no significant difference on plaque removal between MTB and CTB in non-orthodontic children. Due to unexplained high heterogeneity and low methodological quality of RCTs, we cannot determine the extent to which our finding reflects a true effect or bias arising from limitations of primary studies.

Saúde bucal e desigualdades relacionadas entre pessoas com deficiência visual em um município brasileiro

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the oral health and related factors among people with visual impairment in a municipality in southeastern Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional and descriptive household study was carried out on a representative sample of people with visual impairments in a medium-sized city in Brazil. A clinical-dental examination was performed (evaluating tooth loss, caries, periodontal health, dental plaque use and need of prosthesis) and a semistructured questionnaire was applied, investigating the socioeconomic conditions (sex, age, marital status, skin color and income) and the use of dental services (reason, time since, and type of service used [private/public] in last dental visit). Descriptive and bivariate analysis were performed to asses the factors related to oral health. Results: The mean age of participants was 65 years (±15.05), with the majority women (70.9%). 53.1% of the interviewees were edentulous, but 58.2% had a good perception of oral health. The blind ones use less public services (p=0.038) and with a lower frequency (p=0.014) than subjects with low vision. Those with less schooling had higher tooth loss and lower periodontal problems (p &lt;0.05). There was a reduction of dental plaque six months after the educational action (30.7%; p=0.01), especially among the low vision participants (p=0.01). Conclusion: Severe tooth loss and unsatisfactory hygiene contrast with self-perception of oral health. Visual acuity and schooling were related to access and oral health. Actions for promotion and equity are necessary to overcome the inequalities encountered.

Various latest toothbrush design

Toothbrush has been a vital part of day-to-day routine across many cultures worldwide from the times of the distant past and ancientness to the recent 21st century. Over the years, numerous types of toothbrushes have been devised and designed till now. Some of the toothbrushes proposed the purpose of solving physically and mentally handicapped patients. It has been used in the reduction of dental plaque after various acceptability and tolerance of each device. We probably did not think of inventions along with the latest technology when we think of a toothbrush. Nonetheless, you should do so, despite the fact that the toothbrush has been around since 3500 BC. Electric toothbrushes were first introduced in 1969, and the modern toothbrush as we know it was invented in the late 1800s. Despite the addition of the latest technology, for example, Bluetooth to electric toothbrushes in latest years, supplementary technological advancements in these devices have been slow. Moreover, toothbrushes have not changed all that much in terms of design. Latest ways of thinking are emerging. Technology has progressed to the point where advances that we once only imagined are now becoming a reality. It is perfectly possible for creators who have somewhat that acquires the public's hearts in addition desires to finance their project with amounts of money they could only have imagined. The next 10 years or so appear to have the potential to bring about significant changes. This review examines all of the latest technology as well as innovation affecting toothbrushes.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Herbal and Conventional Dentifrices in Reducing Dental Plaque and Gingivitis: A Systematic Review.

ABSTRACTIntroduction:The important cause of chronic gingivitis was proved to be dental plaque, which is a well-organized biofilm. However, self-care efforts or mechanical control of dental plaque by toothbrushing was important; these alone will not be enough to prevent gingivitis.Aim:The aim of the present systematic review was to compare the effectiveness of herbal and conventional toothpastes on reduction of dental plaque and gingivitis.Materials and Methods:Data from original scientific papers published in PubMed, Cochrane, Lilacs, and Google Scholar were taken for review up to November 2020. Randomized controlled trials and clinical trials compare the effectiveness of herbal and non-herbal toothpastes on reduction of dental plaque and gingivitis. Articles published in English language only were included. References from the identified publications were manually searched to identify additional relevant articles. Seven publications fulfilled all the inclusion criteria and were finally selected for systematic review. Outcome measurements for gingivitis were gingival index and dental plaque index.Results:As all the studies were randomized controlled trials, level of evidence was II. Among all studies, green tea dentifrice toothpastes showed significant reduction when compared with conventional dentifrice, and ayurvedic toothpaste and Carica papaya leaf extract were also effective.Conclusion:Herbal toothpaste seems to be powerful similar to non-herbal toothpaste; however, it is no longer extra superior to fluoride toothpaste. Further, long-term randomized studies of >6 months are needed to investigate the beneficial effects of intervention alone.

Effect of Different Mouthwashes and Text Messages on Plaque Accumulation for Dental Students

Aims: Study and compare the effectiveness of different mouthwashes on dental plaque and assess the efficiency of text messages on the response of participants. Materials and Methods: The study was approved by Research Ethics Committee board (University of Mosul, College of Dentistry, REC reference No. POP/R.10/1/21). The Participants were (88) dental students, aged between 18 to 25 years (44 males and 44 females). Students with mild to moderate gingivitis were randomly divided into four groups, 22Participants for each. In Group A, participants were advised kin gingival mouthwash, Group B participants used Wisdom daily gum health mouthwash, Group C participants were given LACALUT aktiv, and KIN B5Gums was given to Group D. The subjects were advised to use 10ml of mouthwash for 30seconds, twice a day, not immediately after tooth brushing (at least5 minutes after tooth brushing), for 14days. Half of the students in all groups (44students) were motivated on regular intervals by personal text messages, to use mouthwash on regular basis. The parameter was recorded for Plaque index (TQHPI) at day 0 and14. Results: The reduction in dental plaque is highly significant on day 14(T1) compared to baseline values (T0). There are highly significant differences among the four types of mouthwashes used on the reduction of dental plaque. Mouthwash in Group C and D were significantly more effective than Group A and B. Mouthwash in Group A was significantly more effective than mouthwash in Group B. Group C mouthwash did not differ significantly from Group D nor Group A mouthwash in plaque build-up reduction. Conclusions: The four mouthwashes used has good efficacy in reducing dental plaque and there were differences in efficiency between them. KIN B5Gums and LACALUT aktiv mouthwashes were the most effective. Wisdom daily gum mouthwash was the least effective.

A Systematic Review of the Potential Effects of Lippia sidoides on Dental Plaque and Periodontal Diseases.

Lippia sidoides is a typical shrub from Brazil that has been used in traditional medicine. This is a systematic review on the effect of L.sidoides for controlling dental plaque, gingivitis, and periodontitis. A database search through May 2021 in Medline/PubMed, SCOPUS, BVS, and Web of Science identified 711 reports of which 17 met our inclusion criteria. Five randomized controlled trials and three animal studies were included that compared L.sidoides-based products (toothpaste, mouthrinse, and gel) to cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, and placebo products. Among the human studies, a significant antiplaque effect after treatment with L.sidoides-based products was observed in three studies and an antigingivitis effect in two studies, similar to chlorhexidine-based products. One study found superior dental plaque reduction compared to cetylpyridinium chloride mouthrinse. Only one study testing a L.sidoides gel found no antiplaque effect. Among the animal studies, an L.sidoides mouthrinse significantly reduced calculus in two studies, inflammatory infiltrate in one study, and plaque bacteria and gingivitis in one study. An L.sidoides gel significantly reduced alveolar bone loss and inflammatory response in one study in which mice were submitted to ligature-induced periodontal disease. In general, L.sidoides-based products were effective in reducing dental plaque and calculus formation, as well as clinical signs of gingivitis. As most studies present methodological limitations, these results should be interpreted carefully. Further clinical trials with greater methodological accuracy and control of biases are necessary for the use of L.sidoides-based products in humans to be viable in clinical practice.

The Influence of Propolis on Dental Plaque Reduction and the Correlation between Dental Plaque and Severity of COVID-19 Complications-A Literature Review.

Current studies suggest that cariogenic bacteria in dental plaque influence the severity of COVID-19 complications since the oral cavity is a reservoir for respiratory pathogens potentially responsible for the development of hospital-acquired pneumonia. This article focuses on the association between dental plaque and COVID-19 concerning the influence of altered oral biofilm on the risk of increased severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, it concentrates on the usefulness of propolis, with its apitherapeutic antibacterial properties, for treating oral bacterial infections co-occurring with SARS-CoV-2 infection. A review of the literature on PubMed, Cochrane Library and Medline between 2000 and 2021 revealed 56 published articles indicating that a link between dental plaque and COVID-19 complications was probable. Furthermore, they indicated that propolis may minimize COVID-19 severity by reducing dental plaque accumulation. The possibility that improved oral health could reduce the risk of COVID-19 complications should be of interest to scientists.

A two-week single-group longitudinal test of a new sonic-powered toothbrush simulating the 'bass brushing technique' with tapered bristles on the brush head for reduction of dental plaque and gingivitis.

To investigate the effect of a new powered toothbrush with tapered bristles on the brush head for the reduction of dental plaque and gingivitis. This was a single-centre, single-group, longitudinal clinical trial. Thirty-two participants who were typical manual toothbrush users were recruited and assigned the sonic-poweredbrush. Interviews were arranged on the 1st , 4th , and 15th days which represented the baseline (T1 ), middle (T2 ) and final (T3 ) time points, respectively. At each visit, the plaque index (PlI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP) and probing depth (PD) were recorded for the Ramfjord index teeth, gingivalcrevicularfluid(GCF) samples were collected and the proportions of eight periodontal pathogenic bacteria were analysed. Repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for comparisons at different time points. PlI was significantly reduced by 41.67% from T1 to T2 (p<0.001) and decreased by 18.57% from T2 to T3 (p=0.003). GI also varied significantly from T1 to T2 (p=0.018) and T1 to T3 (p=0.037). A 35.86% reduction in the BOP percentage occurred after using the sonic-powered toothbrush for 3days (p=0.001). However, no significant difference was observed in the mean values of PD at different examination intervals (p=0.529). There was no significant difference in the proportions of bacteria between T1 and T3 (p>0.05). This research demonstrated the efficacy of the sonic-powered brush handle together with tapered bristles on the brush in reducing plaque and gingivitis within a short time period.

Evaluation of antibacterial efficacy of Triphala toothwipes on oral Streptococcus mutans count in intellectually disabled children.

To evaluate antibacterial efficacy of Triphala toothwipes on oral Streptococcus mutans counts in intellectually disabled (ID) children. Twenty-seven children with a mild ID were randomly divided into two groups: A - Triphala and B - placebo group. Toothwipes were given to caregivers of children belonging to the respective groups, and were instructed to use them 1h after their meals, twice a day for 7days. Simplified Plaque index was recorded and plaque samples were collected for microbiological examination at baseline, 48h, and 7days. The obtained data were tabulated and analyzed. Triphala group showed a statistically significant reduction of S. mutans after 48h and 7days. Both Triphala and placebo groups showed a statistically significant reduction in dental plaque after 48h and 7days. Triphala toothwipes are effective against the oral S. mutans compared with placebo toothwipes, while both the toothwipes are equally effective in reducing dental plaque. Thus, Triphala toothwipes can be used as an adjunct aid along with routine oral hygiene practices in individuals who lack psychomotor skills or are dependent on others to maintain oral hygiene, including infants, preschoolers, geriatric population, and children with special health care needs.

Oral colonization by Levilactobacillus brevis KABPTM-052 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABPTM-051: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial (Pilot Study).

BackgroundTo determine the oral colonization capacity of the strains Levilactobacillus brevis KABPTM-052 (CECT 7480) and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABPTM-051 (CECT 7481) in healthy subjects. Material and MethodsThis randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study included 40 volunteers (22 females, 18 males; age range 18-55 years) with healthy gingiva or mild gingivitis, allocated to receiving probiotic chewing gum (n=20) or placebo (n=20) b.i.d for 6 weeks. At baseline and after 6 weeks of treatment, a periodontics specialist collected saliva samples to assess probiotic colonization by qPCR, and analysed dental plaque, gingival index and dental probing pocket depth in Community Periodontal Index (CPI) teeth subset. Protocol was registered as NCT03540498. ResultsTreatment compliance was high (99%). Both L. brevis and L. plantarum were detected in the oral microbiota at baseline. After 6 weeks, volunteers receiving probiotic showed a significant increase of both L. brevis (p = 0.017) and L. plantarum (p = 0.004) versus placebo. This effect remained significant after adjusting for gender and gingival index at baseline. In the probiotic group, reduction in plaque index significantly correlated to higher levels of L. brevis (rho = 0.57, p = 0.022) but not of L. plantarum at study endpoint, and the number of subjects with dental plaque was reduced during intervention (7 of 17, p = 0.016). No such effects were observed in the placebo group. No adverse drug reactions were reported. ConclusionsLevilactobacillus brevis KABPTM-052 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABPTM-051 colonize the buccal microbiota of healthy volunteers, and higher colonization by L. brevis positively correlated to reduction in dental plaque. Key words:Probiotic, Levilactobacillus brevis, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, oral colonization, oral microbiota, dental plaque.

Antiplaque and antigingivitis efficacy of cetylpyridinium chloride with zinc lactate compared with essential oil mouthrinses: Randomized clinical trial

BackgroundThe authors of this study aimed to evaluate the clinical antiplaque and antigingivitis effects of 3 oral hygiene regimens: toothbrushing with standard fluoride toothpaste and manual toothbrush and using a mouthrinse containing cetylpyridinium chloride, zinc lactate, and fluoride (CPC + Zn + F) in an alcohol-free base; toothbrushing with standard fluoride toothpaste and manual toothbrush and using a mouthrinse containing essential oils (EO) in an alcohol-free base; and toothbrushing with manual toothbrush and standard fluoride toothpaste and manual toothbrush (control). MethodsThe participants (N = 120) were randomly assigned to study groups and followed the assigned regimens twice daily for 6 weeks. The participants were examined by a calibrated examiner for the Quigley-Hein plaque index (Turesky modification) and Löe-Silness gingival index at baseline, week 4, and week 6. Statistical analyses were performed separately for plaque and gingival indexes by means of analysis of variance, paired t test, and analysis of covariance (α = 0.05). ResultsAt week 4, the CPC + Zn + F group presented additional reductions in dental plaque compared with EO and control groups of (21.4% [P < .001] and 31.4% [P < .001], respectively). After 6 weeks, these values were 26.7% (P < .001) and 44.8% (P < .001), respectively. For Löe-Silness gingival index, additional reduction in the CPC + Zn + F group compared with EO were 10.6% (P < .001) and 13.7% (P < .001) at 4 and 6 weeks, respectively. Compared with control, these reductions were 13.6% (P < .001) and 17.8% (P < .001), respectively. ConclusionsThe regimen including a mouthrinse containing CPC + Zn + F presented higher antiplaque and antigingivitis effects than EO and control regimens. Practical ImplicationsA mouthrinse containing CPC + Zn + F is an effective protocol for the control of dental plaque and gingivitis.