Plaque Removal Efficacy of Triple-Headed Toothbrush in 4–6-Year-Old Children: A Randomized Crossover Study

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this randomized crossover designed study was to compare the efficacy of plaque removal between a triple-headed toothbrush and a conventional single-headed toothbrush in 4–6-year-old children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 73 children, aged 4–6 years, were randomly divided into two groups (triple-headed toothbrush and conventional single-headed toothbrush). The children were instructed on how to use the toothbrush by watching a video clip for each toothbrush type and then brushed their teeth for 2 min. The remained plaque was recorded by Greene and Vermillion plaque index (PI). After a 3-week washout period, the toothbrush type was switched, the children brushed their teeth with the alternate toothbrush, and the PI scores were re-recorded. RESULTS: Plaque scores in the triple-headed toothbrush group were statistically significantly lower than those in the single-headed group in almost all (10 out or 12) surfaces measured (P < 0.05). Plaque scores were not significantly different on the buccal surfaces of the upper posterior teeth. CONCLUSION: The triple-headed toothbrush showed better efficacy in plaque removal and could potentially be a good alternative to the conventional single-headed toothbrush in young children with limited hand skill.