Plaque Removal Efficacy of a Novel Toothbrush

Objective: Two examiner-blind, randomized, crossover clinical studies were conducted to compare the plaque removal ability of the Reach^® One Ultimate Clean™ toothbrush (RUC) to Oral-B® Indicator® (OBI). Method: Both studies consisted of two visits for each subject, with a one-week washout period between visits. At the first visit the subjects presented with overnight plaque accumulation (18-24 hours) for evaluation. After meeting inclusion/exclusion criteria, the subjects were randomly assigned to one of the two test brushes. Plaque was disclosed and scored using the Rustogi Modification of the Navy Plaque Index (RMNPI). Subjects were asked to brush for two minutes with their assigned brush using their usual method and were reminded to brush the gumline area. Subjects were then re-disclosed and re-examined for plaque. On the second visit, the subjects repeated the procedure and used the other test toothbrush. Results: 74 subjects completed one study and 73 subjects completed the second study. In both clinical studies, both toothbrushes were effective in removing plaque from the teeth after one brushing. The RUC toothbrush removed significantly more plaque (p-value <0.001) for all areas measured (whole mouth and hard-to-reach areas: marginal, interproximal and behind back molars) in both studies. Conclusion: The results of the two clinical studies demonstrate while both brushes removed plaque, the RUC toothbrush removed significantly more plaque than the OBI product in "hard-to-reach" and whole mouth areas measured.