The Toothbrush Dilemma-which One is the Best?: an Overview of a Study Comparing the Efficacy of Different Bristle Designs of Toothbrushes on Plaque Removal

Patients who have not received any professional advice regarding the type of brush used for cleansing usually choose the brushes based on cost, availability, advertising claims, family tradition or habit. The various designs of toothbrushes available in the market often put the common man in dilemma about the best design and they often seek professional advice on this matter. Because of the varieties of brushes currently available and the constant development of new brushes, the dental professional must maintain a high level of knowledge on these products and advice the patients appropriately. The data derived from this communication supports the contention of many researchers that there is no one superior design of manual toothbrush. This leaves uncontested the conclusion that the user is by far the most significant variable affecting the tooth brushing efficacy.