Clinical efficacy and patients' acceptance of a rubber interdental bristle. A randomized controlled trial

Clin Oral Investig. 2014 Sep;18(7):1873-80. doi: 10.1007/s00784-013-1164-3. Epub 2014 Jan 10.

Abstract

Objectives: Interdental cleaning is an essential component of home plaque control to prevent periodontitis and caries. There is limited data on the efficacy of commonly used metal-core interdental brushes in comparison to metal-free interdental brushes. The aim of this study was to compare a new rubber interdental bristle (Fuchs®) with a standard metal-core interdental brush (TePe®) for their impact upon gingival bleeding, plaque removal, and patient experience.

Materials and methods: A single-blind, prospective, randomized, and controlled clinical trial with a crossover design was used to measure plaque index (Turesky-Modified Quigley & Hein Index), bleeding index (Eastman Interdental Bleeding Index by Caton & Polson), and patient satisfaction by means of questionnaires in 39 patients. Each patient was randomly assigned with regard to the sequence of interdental product used and recalled.

Results: Both groups showed statistically significant decreases of plaque after a single usage, respectively. Bleeding was statistically significantly reduced after 4 weeks, with no statistically significant differences concerning between the two tested interdental brushes. Rubber interdental bristles reached significantly higher scores with regard to patient acceptance in overall assessment and in sub-items for less pain during usage, comfort of brushing, and willingness to buy the product.

Conclusion: Rubber interdental bristles were similarly effective compared to the interdental brushes. In addition, rubber interdental bristles were significantly more comfortable for participants than metal-core brushes.

Clinical relevance: Rubber interdental bristles can be used as an alternative interdental cleaning product which may be more accepted by patients.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Dental Devices, Home Care*
  • Dental Plaque / prevention & control*
  • Dental Plaque Index
  • Equipment Design
  • Female
  • Gingivitis / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Rubber
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Rubber