Oral examinations were conducted before the experiment started. The students were given common toothbrushes (control group) or spring-attached toothbrushes (experimental group) and instructed to brush their teeth by scrubbing method. Measurement of plaque index and count of salivary bacteria were done at 0, 1, 3, and 5 weeks.
1. Mean plaque index was significantly reduced at week 1 compared with at week 0 in both groups. (P<0.05)
2. Mean plaque index was significantly reduced at week 3 compared with at week 1 in the experimental group. (P<0.05)
3. Mean plaque index was significantly reduced at week 5 compared with at week 3 in the experimental group. (P<0.05)
4. There were no significant differences of mean plaque index among week 1, week 3, and week 5 in control group. (P)0.05)
5. The number of salivary bacteria was slightly reduced during the experiment, however there was no statistical significance. (P)0.05)
To reduce the plaque effectively, the use of spring-attached toothbrush should be recommended, and adequeate instruction for children is needed.
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