474 - Electric vs Manual Toothbrushes Effectiveness at Plaque Removal in Children

Saturday, May 28, 2022

1:40 PM – 1:55 PM PT

Location: Sails Pavilion

Has Audio

Presenting Author(s)

Tasheka N. Pritchett, DDS

Pediatric Dental Resident
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University
St.Louis, Missouri, United States

Research Mentor(s)

AR

Avanija Reddy, DMD

Assistant Professor
Saint Louis University
St Louis, Missouri, United States

Program Director(s)

DS

Daniel Stoeckel, DDS

Program Director
Saint Louis University Pediatric dentistry
Saint Louis, Missouri, United States

Purpose: In light of new research, the aim of this study is to evaluate plaque reduction with manual and electric toothbrushes during a one-minute supervised brushing session, of 3-6 year-old children.

Method: A total of 20 children, between 3-6 years old were selected to participate in this randomized clinical trial. Participants were divided into 2 randomized groups, manual vs electric toothbrushes, using a computer software program. During recall visits, hard and soft tissues were examined and initial plaque index scores recorded. Plaque disclosing tablets were given to participants to chew for 30 seconds prior to toothbrushing. Participants were asked to brush his or her teeth for 1 minute while supervised. Examiners recorded both pre and post plaque index scores using the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index.

Results: A Welch t-test was performed to determine if there was a statistically significant difference in change in plaque between types of toothbrush. There were 9 electric toothbrushes and 11 manual toothbrushes. A Welch t-test revealed that there was not a statistically significant difference in reduction in plaque (t = 2.0633,p = 0.05483) between the two groups.

Conclusion: Both electric and manual toothbrushes are effective at plaque removal in school aged children.