Three-year randomized study of manual and power toothbrush effects on pre-existing gingival recession

• Published in: Journal of clinical periodontology 2016-06, Vol.43 (6), p.512-519
• Main Authors: Dörfer, Christof E., Staehle, Hans Jörg, Wolff, Diana
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: brushing effect; Dental Plaque; Dental Plaque Index; Dentistry; Equipment Design; Gingival Recession; Gingivitis; Gum disease; Health & beauty aids; Humans; long-term clinical study; manual brush; Oral hygiene; oscillating-rotating power brush; Periodontal Therapy; pre-existing gingival recession; Prospective Studies; Randomized Clinical Trial; reduced gingival recession; Single-Blind Method; Toothbrushing
• ISSN: 0303-6979; 1600-051X
• DOI: 10.1111/jcpe.12518

Aim To compare long‐term effects of brushing with an oscillating–rotating power toothbrush or an ADA reference manual toothbrush on pre‐existing gingival recession. Materials and Methods In this controlled, prospective, single‐blind, parallel‐group study, healthy subjects with pre‐existing recession were randomized and brushed with a power toothbrush (n = 55) or an ADA reference manual toothbrush (n = 54) for a 3‐year study period. Subjects were required to brush their teeth twice daily for 2 min. using a standard fluoride toothpaste. During the study, subjects were assessed for clinical attachment loss and probing pocket depths to the nearest mm at six sites per tooth by the same calibrated examiner. Gingival recession was calculated at pre‐existing sites as the difference between clinical attachment loss and probing pocket depths. Hard and soft oral tissues were examined to assess safety. Results After 35 ± 2 months, mean gingival recession did not differ significantly between groups, but was significantly reduced from baseline (p