Comparison of the interproximal plaque removal efficacy of two powered toothbrushes using in vitro oral biofilms

Objective

To compare, in vitro, the interproximal plaque removal beyond the bristles of two power toothbrushes

Methodology

A dental plaque model in which a multispecies biofilm was grown on hydroxyapatite discs was used to evaluate the ability of Sonicare Elite and Oral-B 3D to remove biofilm without bristle contact.The dental plaque model was located interproximally at a distance of approximately 2 mm from the bristles and exposed to the fluid dynamic activity generated by the brushes with the motors either activated or inactivated for 5 seconds.

In the activated state, both brushes removed a significantly higher percentage of plaque biofilm compared to the inactive brushes.The percentage of plaque bacteria removed by Sonicare Elite (32.2%) beyond the bristles was significantly greater than that removed by Oral-B 3D (9.5%), (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Sonicare Elite removed significantly more dental plaque biofilm 2–3 mm beyond the reach of the bristles than Oral-B 3D.