Randomized controlled trial of a TiO2 Semiconductor toothbrush on mild-to-moderate periodontitis

The Soladey toothbrush (Shiken Corp., Osaka, Japan) is based on the principle that electrical induction will cause a wetted titanium dioxide semiconductor to emit electrons. The manufacturer claims that in addition to the established mechanical benefits of brushing, the flow of electrons from the brush head may disrupt ionic bonding of plaque, neutralize bacterial organic acids, and thus confer an advantage over a conventional toothbrush.

Determine whether a TiO2 semiconductor-containing toothbrush confers an advantage over a conventional toothbrush in adult patients with mild-to-moderate gingivitis/periodontitis. MATERIALS and

Seventy-one patients with mild-to-moderate gingivitis/periodontitis were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled modified crossover trial that compared the Soladey-3 titanium dioxide semiconductor toothbrush (Shiken Corp., Osaka, Japan) to an otherwise identical toothbrush containing an inert resin core in place of the semiconductor. Changes in indices of gingivitis and periodontitis were the primary outcomes.

Sixty-six patients completed the study. Relative to baseline, an almost two-fold increased gingival crevice fluid flow followed both active and control treatments was statistically significant. Relative to the inactive control device, the active Soladey-3 toothbrush had no clinically meaningful effects on selected markers of gingivitis/periodontitis.

The active Soladey-3 toothbrush did not substantially impact selected markers of gingivitis/periodontitis by the end of a two-week treatment period in adult patients with mild-to-moderate disease. Both inactive (control) and active (TiO2 semi-conductor) versions of the Soladey toothbrushes significantly increased crevice fluid flow.