Efficacy evaluation of rubber cup and air polishing techniques using glycine in plaque and stain removal - A clinical trial

BACKGROUND: Researchers have proved Glycine to be safe, less abrasive, sweet and comfortable for patients. It is beneficial in removing plaque as well as stains. The present study aims to compare the plaque and extrinsic stain removal efficacy of the air-polishing device and rubber cup prophylaxis technique along with a comparative evaluation of the gingival trauma caused by both the techniques. METHOD: This split-mouth randomized clinical trial was conducted on a total of 60 subjects in half of whom, left side was assigned to Glycine powder air polishing and the right side to rubber cup prophylaxis with (Glycine powder) and vice versa in the other half. All the subjects had their calculus removed one month prior to the intervention. Plaque index, Stain index and Trauma index were recorded and statistical analysis was done. RESULTS: Both the techniques (RCP and AP) demonstrated a significant reduction in plaque and stains within their respective groups, but revealed non-significant differences between the study groups. Gingival trauma was found to be significantly higher in case of AP group. Rubber cup technique was preferred over air polishing by the subjects. CONCLUSION: The data indicates that both the techniques were equally beneficial for plaque and stain removal, but rubber cup polishing technique has an advantage over the air polishing technique.