The long-term effect of an oscillating/rotating electric toothbrush on gingivitis. An 8-month clinical study.

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Braun Plak Control for the removal of supragingival plaque and improving gingival health in a long-term clinical trial, and to compare it to regular manual toothbrush. Assessed were plaque accumulation, amount of gingival inflammation, gingival bleeding on probing, and calculus. In total, 77 young individuals were selected on the basis of having 'moderate gingivitis'. They were monitored over 8 months and divided among 2 groups; a control group that used a manual toothbrush and a test group that used the Braun Plak Control. The clinical assessments were repeated after 1, 2, 5, and 8 months. At baseline, subjects were handed their assigned toothbrushes together with written oral hygiene instructions. They were instructed to brush for at least 2 min. 1 month after baseline examinations, all subjects received a professional prophylaxis and oral hygiene instruction from an experienced dental hygienist. Plaque removal was reinforced at the 2-and 5-month examination. In conclusion, results indicate that the Braun Plak Control is a safe and efficient home care device. At the end of this trial, this electric toothbrush proved to be more effective than a regular manual toothbrush.