[The duration and efficiency of toothbrushing in 4- to 6-year old children]. / Estudo clínico experimental relativo à duração e eficiência da escovação dentaria em crianças de 4 a 6 anos de idade.

The purpose of this study was to establish a practical and effective toothbrushing time for the pre-schoolchildren, by answering a very frequent questions made by the responsible for the young patients. 120 children brushed their teeth under supervision for predetermined times of 3, 5, 8 and 10 min. No specific technique was recommended. Oral hygiene indexes were scored prior to the brushing procedure. Although the 8 and 10 min. brushing times were effective in removing debris from the surface of the teeth they proved to be detrimental to the integrity of gingival tissues. The 3 min. brushing period was insufficient, while the 5 min. period was highly safe and effective. It was recommended that for the success of oral hygiene for the pre-schoolchild, the teeth should be brushed for 5 min. under supervision at least once a day.