• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.39 no.6
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• pp.383-392
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• 2009

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a slim bristled toothbrush compared with a V-shaped orthodontic toothbrush in patients with fixed orthodontic appliances. Methods: Thirty four orthodontic patients receiving edgewise treatment were randomly assigned to two groups, a slim bristled toothbrush (Nano silver slim care) and a V-shaped toothbrush (Oral-B). Plaque index, gingival index and bleeding index were recorded at the beginning of the study (baseline), 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 6 weeks after new toothbrushes were supplied and the results were analyzed statistically. Results: No statistically significant differences were found for plaque index, gingival index and bleeding index between toothbrush groups during the 6 weeks. Plaque and gingival indices were decreased at 2 weeks and 4 weeks but increased at 6 weeks in both toothbrush groups. Bleeding index in the V-shaped toothbrush group showed the lowest value at 2 weeks then increased at 4 weeks and 6 weeks but in the slim bristled toothbrush group decreased from 2 weeks through 6 weeks to under baseline levels. Patients in their twenties had significantly lower values than teenagers in the slim bristled toothbrush group (p < 0.013). Conclusions: The results would suggest that both of the toothbrushes are equally effective but the use of a slim bristled toothbrush may be of benefit in promoting gingival health for fixed orthodontic appliance patients in their twenties and over.