Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
Pilot In Vitro Study to Assess Cleaning Ability and Effects of Different Decontamination Methods on Implant Surfaces
Published on: November 21, 2025
Efficacy of 3D-Printed Cleaning Splints for Approximal Dental Biofilm Removal-A Randomized Clinical Crossover Pilot
Marcia Spindler1, Theresa Becker1, Stefan Rues2
1Department of Conservative Dentistry, Heidelberg Faculty of Medicine, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
Objectives:
This study investigated the effectiveness of biofilm removal using individually customized cleaning splints (CS) as an aid for interdental brushes (IDBs).
Materials And Methods:
In a randomized clinical crossover study, the effect of IDBs in combination with CS on plaque reduction and periodontal parameters was examined. Periodontitis patients received an intraoral scan to produce a 3D-printed CS. Following a 2-week interdental hygiene pause, they were divided into two groups: Group A: CS+IDBs, Group B: IDBs. Participants performed daily interdental cleaning at home for 2 weeks following standardized professional instruction. After another 2-week interdental hygiene pause, the groups switched methods. Additionally, motor skills, stress levels, and nutritional quality were assessed.
Results:
Thirty participants (age range 21-82 years) completed the study. CS+IDBs led to a significantly greater plaque reduction (change in Quigley-Hein plaque index, ∆QHI) compared to IDBs alone (ΔQHI = -1.38 vs. -0.23, p < 0.001). The impact on reducing gingival inflammation (GI) was limited to younger participants with no effect on bleeding on probing (BOP). Random effects ANCOVA confirmed the significant effect of CS on ∆QHI (p < 0.001). An interaction between perceived stress and CS use on BOP indicated that stress may influence the effectiveness of CS supported plaque removal.
Conclusions:
Cleaning splints are a promising approach to enhance the effectiveness of IDBs in reducing interdental biofilm.
