Comparative assessment of three brushing techniques among in India

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Oral Hygiene Research
• Public Health Dentistry

Background:

• Dental plaque control in young children is a persistent challenge.
• The optimal toothbrushing technique for this age group remains undetermined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of three brushing techniques: horizontal scrub, Fones, and modified Bass.
• To evaluate these techniques in children aged 6-9 years for plaque reduction.

Main Methods:

• 120 government school children (aged 6-9 years) were randomly assigned to learn one of three techniques.
• Plaque levels were assessed using the Silness and Löe index before and after instruction.
• Data were analyzed using ANOVA and post-hoc tests.

Main Results:

• All three evaluated brushing techniques resulted in significant reductions in dental plaque levels.
• The modified Bass technique demonstrated the greatest improvement in plaque reduction compared to the other methods.
• The modified Bass method showed statistically significant superior plaque reduction over the Fones and horizontal scrub techniques.

Conclusions:

• The modified Bass technique is significantly more effective for dental plaque reduction in young children.
• Findings support evidence-based recommendations for implementing the modified Bass technique in school-based oral health programs.
• This technique is particularly beneficial during the critical mixed dentition period for improving oral hygiene.