Advice and Information About Toothbrushing as Available on Websites of Professional Dental Care Associations

This study aimed to assess the online advice and information about toothbrushing provided by professional dental care associations (PDCAs) in English-speaking countries.

PDCAs are national organisations of dentists and dental hygienists. A cross-sectional internet search for information published until July 2021 was performed. First, it was assessed whether there was a PDCA in English-speaking countries. A distinction was made between dentist associations (DAs) and dental hygienist associations (DHAs). In case a website was available, it was assessed whether toothbrushing advice was provided. Recommendations regarding a brushing technique, advice and instruction about the type of toothbrush, type of bristles, duration of brushing, time of changing the toothbrush, the use of toothpaste and interdental cleaning devices were gathered and summarised.

In total, 56 English-speaking countries were considered, of which 52 had a DA and 15 had a DHA, the majority of which had a working website. In total, 35% of the PDCAs, that is, 16 DAs and 7 DHAs, provided advice and information on toothbrushing and recommended twice daily manual toothbrushing with a fluoride toothpaste. Generally, a toothbrushing duration of 2 min (n = 20) and the (modified) Bass toothbrushing technique (n = 9) were advised. Nine PDCAs recommended the use of a powered toothbrush as well, and 21 recommended the daily use of floss. Nine PDCAs also recommended the use of an interdental brush.

In total, 35% of the PDCAs with a website provided advice and/or information on toothbrushing. All of the PDCAs recommended twice daily brushing with a manual toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. However, a significant heterogeneity was observed in the instructions related to toothbrushing and toothbrushing technique. With respect to other recommendations on basic oral self-care, there appears to be a need for alignment and improvement in professional information for the general public with respect to the type of toothbrush, toothbrushing instruction, technique and other toothbrushing-related aspects.