Comparative Analysis of Mechanical CLeansing Ability of Toothbrush among Children

The achievement of good oral hygiene among Filipino children remains a big challenge for Filipino dentist nowadays. Maintenance of good oral health is not a priority needs of middle-income Filipino family.People associate dental treatment as costly and expensive.And the root of all dental evils is dental plaque,the principal etiological factor in virtually all forms of periodontal diseases. Prevention of plaque buildup can be achieved by regular brushing. Toothbrushing is the widespread means of plaque control.Objective:Study aims to compare the mechanical cleansing ability of the different kinds of toothbrush among children in Malolos Bulacan.Method: A Total of 50 children aged 6-7 years old were randomly selected,interviewed and examined.Parent consent were obtained.Clinical examination were undertaken to record their DMF index and Plaque Control Record. Toothbrushing instruction were given.Respondents were divided into Two groups:first group were given a straight-handle toothbrush; second group,an angulated-handle toothbrush.Results:Decayed(53%, Missing(38%, Filled(0%), PCR on the 1st week:group one registered 47%; group two 45%,2nd week monitoring revealed:18% and 21% for group 1 and group 2 respectively,3rd week:group 1 has an average PCR of 7% ;group two has average PCR of 4%.Conclusion: Plaque can be removed with home care procedures such as brushing, though dexterity among children is not yet highly developed, the design of toothbrush remains one's personal preference or choice. Maintenance of oral hygiene need not be expensive as long as one makes brushing a lifelong habit.