Evaluation of the efficacy of charcoal coated toothbrush and conventional toothbrush in periodontal health A comparative clinical study

Abstract

Context and Design: One of the most important causes for the initiation and progression of periodontal diseases is the plaque microorganisms. The bacteria in the dental plaque can lead to an extension of inflammation to the surrounding periodontal tissues leading to periodontal breakdown, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. To overcome this and to facilitate good oral health, plaque control by tooth brushing is of utmost importance. Aim: To determine the efficacy of charcoal toothbrush and conventional toothbrush in maintaining periodontal health. Methods and Material: The study group comprised of 40 dental students in the age range of 23 – 25 years. After one month of oral prophylaxis, a double-blinded clinical study was conducted wherein all the study participants were instructed with oral hygiene techniques after which the plaque index, gingival index, oral hygiene status, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment levels were assessed at the baseline, at the end of two weeks and one month. Friedman’s test and Man Whitney U test used to evaluate the efficacy of the two brushes in plaque removal and to maintain periodontal health. Results: Statistical significant difference was noticed in the plaque index and oral hygiene index simplified (OHIS) at two weeks with regular brush performing than with charcoal. Conclusions: Conventional toothbrush was significantly more effective in plaque removal and maintaining an overall good oral hygiene status than the charcoal toothbrush