Role of dentifrice in plaque removal: a clinical trial.
BACKGROUND
The precise role of dentifrice in plaque removal has been debatable. While a considerable volume of literature attributes several beneficial properties and glorifies the role of dentifrice, a small body of researchers questions its efficacy. Lingering doubts are emerging about the plaque removal efficacy of toothpastes and probably a time has come to reassess its role in plaque removal.


OBJECTIVE
The present study is used to evaluate the plaque removal efficacy of dentifrice alone during the manual brushing of teeth.


METHODS
In a double blinded 2 Chi 2 crossover study design, 42 subjects had brushed randomly with or without dentifrice under supervision, with a standard dentifrice and toothbrush, after 48 hours of plaque accumulation, for two minutes.


RESULTS
Plaque reduction with dentifrice was 57.35% and without dentifrice was 66.19%. This 9% difference was statistically significant ( P < or = 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
Dentifrice use does not enhance plaque removal when used in conjunction with a toothbrush, and instead, may marginally lessen the brushing effect. The role of a toothbrush appears to be more crucial in the maintenance of oral hygiene.
Jayakumar
A
A
Department of Periodontics, Sri Sai College of Dental Surgery, Vikarabad, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Padmini
H
H
Haritha
A
A
Reddy
Krishnanjaneya Pathakota
KP
D000328:Adult; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000188:drug therapy*; D003802:Dentifrices / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D006801:Humans; D014099:Toothbrushing
D003802:Dentifrices