Cleansing efficacy of an oral irrigator with microburst technology in adolescent orthodontic patients. A randomized-controlled crossover study

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Simplifying interdental space cleaning is a constantly discussed topic. The present study aimed to compare the cleansing efficacy of an oral irrigator with that of dental flossing in adolescent patients with fixed braces after four weeks of home-use. Materials and methods The study design is a randomized, single-blinded cross-over study. Following a twenty-eight-day period of product utilization in a home setting, a comparative analysis was conducted on hygiene indices, specifically the Rustogi Modified Navy Plaque Index (RMNPI) and the Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI), between the test group (oral irrigator) and the control group (dental floss). Results Seventeen adolescent individuals finalized the study. After 28 days of cleaning with the oral irrigator, RMNPI was 58.81% (55.31 – 66.47) compared to 59.46% (52.68 - 68.67) with dental floss (p = 0.070). Subgroup analyses did not classify either of the two methods as superior. GBI after the test phase with the oral irrigator was 28.93% (23.21 – 33.97) and insignificant higher compared to 26.40% (21.01 – 31.41) with dental floss (p = 0.1585). Conclusions None of the two products proved significantly superior in terms of cleaning efficiency. Therefore, no recommendation can be made in favor of one over the other. It is evident that through special attention to home oral hygiene, improved index values were achieved, leading to the conclusion that paying careful attention to daily dental cleaning is of highly importance. Clinical relevance It´s less about the tool but more about oral hygiene instruction and motivation provided by the orthodontist or the responsible guardians at home.