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A new in vitro method for testing the interproximal cleaning potential of toothbrushing
C Bruun1, K R Ekstrand, K B Andreasen
1School of Dentistry, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. carsten.bruun@odont.ku.dk
The Journal of Clinical Dentistry
|December 4, 1998
Summary
New research reveals that current toothbrushing techniques leave significant approximal tooth surfaces untouched. Improved toothbrush design, not new techniques, is key for effective interproximal cleaning.
Area of Science:
- Dental hygiene
- Oral health research
- Biomaterials science
Background:
- Effective cleaning of approximal tooth surfaces is crucial for preventing dental caries and periodontal disease.
- Existing toothbrushing techniques may not adequately reach interproximal areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel laboratory method for evaluating the approximal penetration of toothbrushing techniques.
- To compare the efficacy of different toothbrushing methods in cleaning interproximal tooth surfaces.
Main Methods:
- A laboratory-based method was developed using colored coatings on artificial teeth (numbers 33-38) to simulate plaque.
- Teeth were brushed using conventional and specialized interproximal techniques from buccal and lingual aspects.
- Remaining coating areas were quantified using digital photography and computer analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant areas of approximal tooth surfaces remained uncleaned irrespective of the brushing technique used.
- No tested toothbrushing technique achieved complete coverage of the interproximal surfaces.
- The developed laboratory method demonstrated high similarity to in vivo conditions.
Conclusions:
- Improvements in toothbrush design are likely more critical for effective interproximal cleaning than novel brushing techniques.
- The developed laboratory method is suitable for assessing the interproximal cleaning potential of new toothbrush designs.