ABSTRACT
The efficacy of ultrasonic toothbrush and a manual toothbrush was compared on the oral hygiene status and on microbial parameters. 26 dental students from the College of Dental Sciences Davangere, Karnataka, were selected for this single blind study of 4 weeks duration. The participants were in the age group of 18-25 years. The brushes were randomly allotted by the co-investigator, who also supervised the brushing technique throughout the study period. The subjects were instructed to refrain from brushing their teeth for 12-14 hours prior to each follow up visit. The main investigator assessed all the clinical parameters at baseline, 14th, 21st and 28th day. Statistical analysis was carried out by an independent statistician who remained blind to the test products. Each of the tooth brushes tested, showed significant reductions in all the clinical parameters between 0 and 28th day. The reductions within the groups were significant although no significant differences between the groups were found. The reductions in stain index, bleeding index and gingival index was higher in ultrasonic toothbrush compared to manual toothbrush. It is concluded that ultrasonic toothbrush is safe and effective in the removal of plaque, stains, reduction of gingival inflammation and gingival bleeding.