Interproximal Biofilm Removal of Sonicare, Doltz and Prinia Sonic Toothbrushes

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the ability of three sonic powered toothbrushes in removing interproximal plaque biofilm beyond the reach of the bristles without direct bristle contact in vitro.

Methods: Using an in vitro typodont model containing saliva-based multispecies oral biofilms grown on hydroxyapatite discs, two studies were executed, comparing Sonicare FlexCare (with ProResults brush head) against either National Doltz EW1045 (with brush head EW0901) and GC Prinia Slim (handle MI-0002, brush head MI-1013). Discs with biofilms were located on interproximal sites of molar teeth at a distance of 2-4 mm from the bristles, and exposed to the fluid dynamic activity generated by the activated brushes. As control, an inactivated FlexCare (‘off') was used. Plaque removal efficacy was determined by enumeration of the percentage of viable bacteria removed from the interproximal discs as a result of brushing treatment. ANOVA and Dunnett's at p=0.05 were used for statistical evaluations.

Results: FlexCare removed significantly more interproximal biofilm compared to both Doltz [73.1% (10.5%) vs 37.3% (8.5%), p=0.0001] and Prinia [73.1% (10.0%) vs 18.3% (8.3%), p<0.0001] as well as FlexCare ‘off' (p<0.0001). Conclusion: Of three sonic toothbrushes tested in vitro, the Sonicare FlexCare removed significantly more dental plaque biofilm beyond the bristles than the National Doltz EW1045 and the GC Prinia Slim.