The development of the Braun Oral-B Ultra Plaque Remover: an in vitro robot study.

Abstract

PURPOSE: To assess the efficacy of a new brush head design and brushing action using a novel robot system which simulates normal clinical toothbrush use. The system allows developments in toothbrush design to be assessed prior to embarking on expensive and time consuming clinical trials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using this system, the efficacy of a new brush head design combined with a modified brushing speed, was compared with the clinically established Braun Oral-B Plaque Remover (D7 handle and EB5 brush head). RESULTS: A combination of a new brush head (EB9) with longer tufts of bristles designed to improve interdental penetration, and an increased frequency of bristle movement (63Hz, 3,800 strokes per minute - D9 handle) was associated with significantly greater removal of artificial plaque. Visual observation of typodonts suggested that this increased efficacy is related to greater removal of plaque from interdental surfaces and occlusal fissures. These results suggest that the D9/EB9 prototype electric toothbrush is suitable for further investigation and clinical evaluation.