Clinical evaluation of an ionic toothbrush in the removal of established plaque and the reduction of gingivitis
The purpose of the study was to test the clinical effectiveness of a manual ionic toothbrush in the removal of dental plaque and reduction of gingivitis. Sixty-four out of 71 adults completed this double- blinded study. Loe Gingival Index was used to assess disclosed plaque on the labial/buccal and lingual/palatal tooth surfaces. Each individual received a complete examination. The gingival scores were recorded first, followed by disclosure of all teeth to determine the plaque index. The patients were given a prepackaged and coded hyG ionic action toothbrush with active or inactive batteries, randomly divided into two groups: group A (test) and group B (control). The patients were told to brush at least twice daily using their usual technique and dentifrice. They were then scheduled for an appointment for the next scoring session, approximately three months from the date of the initial examination. All the indices were repeated, and instructions in how to use the toothbrush were given. Once again the patients were scheduled for a three-month appointment. Patients were again examined, and gingival and plaque indices were recorded.
Statistically significant improvements in Loe Gingival Index scores were observed from baseline to six months between the control and test groups. Differences also were observed within the test group. The Quigley-Hein Plaque Index scores showed a significant improvement between the test and the control groups as well.
In conclusion, the results of the study demonstrate the effectiveness of an ionic toothbrush with a 3-V battery. The removal of plaque and the reduction of gingivitis can be enhanced by the use of the hyG ionic action toothbrush in personal oral hygiene care. [C.C.]
Van Swol, R.L., D.E. Van Scotter, J.J. Pucher, and A. R. Dentino, Quint Int, 27:389,1996