Development of a laboratory model to assess the removal of biofilm from interproximal spaces by powered tooth brushing.

Abstract

The Sonicare Elite reduced the thickness of biofilm by 57% at a distance of 0-5 mm from the bristle tips, 53% at 5-10 mm and 43% at 10-15 mm, relative to biofilm in areas unexposed to brushing. All reductions in thickness were statistically significant (P < 0.01). The Braun Oral-B 3D Excel reduced the biofilm thickness by 16%, 13%, and 19% at the same distances respectively, but the thickness reductions were not statistically significant from those in the unexposed areas (P > 0.1).