Interproximal access efficacy of Sonicare Plus and Braun Oral-B Ultra compared to a manual toothbrush

A laboratory testing method, which has previously been shown to correlate with in vivo plaque removal results, was used to test the interproximal access efficacy (IAE) of two powered toothbrushes (Sonicare Plus and Braun Oral-B Ultra), and a manual toothbrush. This method tests IAE by means of simulated interdental spaces covered with pressure-sensitive paper tightly apposed to the surface. Testing was performed under wet conditions using 70, 100 and 140 grams of brushing force. Brushing was done for 15 seconds. The pressure-sensitive papers were removed, dried, and the IAE was quantified by a blinded investigator who measured the markings on the papers with calipers. The Sonicare Plus interproximal access scores were significantly greater than both the Braun Oral-B Ultra and the manual toothbrush at all three brushing forces tested (p < 0.001). These findings demonstrate that in vitro methodology previously used for testing manual toothbrushes is also adaptable for testing powered brushes. While additional studies are needed to confirm the clinical relevance of the present study, these results demonstrate the superiority of interproximal access of the Sonicare Plus sonic toothbrush over the Braun Oral-B Ultra powered brush and a manual toothbrush using this method.