Ortho 101 for the Dental Professional
Power Toothbrushes

A Cochrane Collaboration study concluded oscillating power toothbrushes were more effective than manual brushes in plaque reduction and gingivitis by 11% and 6%, respectively, in the short-term. And after 3 months, gingivitis was reduced by 11%.¹⁰ Since orthodontic patients have more challenges with keeping their mouths free of harmful biofilms, it is important to provide information and training on methods to improve the patient’s ability to reduce harmful bacteria. There are a variety of power brushes available to patients. A toothbrush head with the capability of reaching into interdental areas with a tip small enough to penetrate into tight areas around archwires, brackets, and bands is ideal (Figure 2).