OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the plaque removal efficacy of a newly-developed electric-powered ionic toothbrush vs. a manual toothbrush.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Manual or electric-powered ionic toothbrushes were randomly assigned to 30 healthy volunteers divided into two groups (Phase I). After 2-minutes of brushing, all teeth surfaces were stained with a plaque staining solution, and blinded examiners performed scoring using the Rustogi Modification of the Navy Plaque Index. Plaque removal rate was calculated at the central incisors, first premolar, and first molar, as representative teeth, in the maxilla and mandibula. One week following Phase I, the same examinations were repeated in all subjects using another toothbrush (Phase II), as a cross-over design.

RESULTS: Electric ionic toothbrushes demonstrated a significantly higher plaque removal rate than manual toothbrushes in the premolar and molar areas (p < 0.05). However, in the central incisor area, no statistically significant difference was observed.

CONCLUSIONS: Compared to manual toothbrushes, electric-powered ionic ones were significantly efficient in removing plaque in the premolar and molar areas.