Effectiveness of T-shaped toothbrush in children: A pilot study
- Author:
Noraida Mamat
1
Author Information
1. Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia,16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
- Collective Name:Shani Ann Mani
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Children;
gingival health;
oral hygiene;
plaque removal;
toothbrush
- From:Archives of Orofacial Sciences
2018;13(2):86-92
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Dental caries and gingivitis are common oral health problems affecting schoolchildren worldwide.
Effective tooth brushing in children is fundamental in preventing dental caries and gingivitis and maintaining good
oral health. Children routinely present with unsatisfactory oral hygiene due to poor compliance and poor dexterity
in tooth brushing. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel T-shaped
toothbrush in plaque removal and gingival health among children and to obtain feedback regarding its use.
Nineteen participants aged 8-10 years who fulfilled the criteria enrolled in this study. The children were taught the
proper technique of using the new toothbrush and instructed to use it for a period of 2 weeks. The plaque scores
and gingival scores were measured at baseline and after 2 weeks. They were asked to complete a questionnaire
regarding the use of the toothbrush after 2 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test. There was a
statistically significant (p <0.05) reduction in mean (SD) plaque scores from baseline 1.96 (0.85) to 1.51 (0.75),
after 2 weeks. Similarly, mean (SD) gingival scores reduced significantly from 0.20 (0.11) to 0.13 (0.08) over the
two-week period. Overall, majority of participants (68% to 89%) gave positive feedback in all aspects regarding
the use of T-shaped toothbrush, although 63.2% of them reported having difficulties to handle the T-shaped
toothbrush initially. The T-shaped toothbrush can effectively improve oral hygiene in children with acceptable
plaque removal and adequate gingival health in children.
- Full text:1.2018my0159.pdf
