The curved-bristle toothbrush: an aid for the handicapped population
Williams, N.J.; Schuman, N.J.
Asdc Journal of Dentistry for Children 55(4): 291-293
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 1945-1954 PMID: 2970481 Document Number: 307457
This study was undertaken to assess the comparative effectiveness of two toothbrushes in the removal of plaque in an institutionalized, handicapped population. The two methods were: a conventional toothbrush using the Modified Stillman Method; and a curved-bristle toothbrush using the scrubbing technique recommended by the manufacturer. Subjects selected were profoundly retarded individuals, incapable of self-brushing skills. According to random selection, subjects' teeth were brushed by trained personnel with either the curved bristle or the conventional toothbrush. Results demonstrated that the curved-bristle toothbrush was as effective as the conventional toothbrush when used by trained personnel.