Comparison of Water Flosser and Interdental Brush on Plaque Removal: A Single-Use Pilot Study
Lyle DM, Goyal CR, Qaqish JG, Schuller R. J Clin Dent 2016; 27(1):23–26.
Objective
To determine the efficacy of a Waterpik™ Water Flosser versus interdental brushes for plaque removal.
Methodology
Twenty-eight subjects completed this one-time-use study. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Waterpik Water Flosser (WF) plus manual toothbrushing, or interdental brushes (IDB) plus manual toothbrushing.
Plaque scores were obtained using the Rustogi Modification of the Navy Plaque Index (RMNPI). Subjects were instructed on the use of their interdental product.
Post-cleaning scores were recorded after supervised brushing and use of the interdental device.
Scores were measured for the whole mouth, marginal, approximal, facial, and lingual regions for each subject.
Results
The Waterpik Water Flosser group was significantly more effective than the IDB group at removing plaque in all areas measured. Specifically, the WF was 18% more effective for whole mouth and marginal areas, 20% for approximal areas, 11% for facial areas, and 29% for lingual areas.
Conclusion
The Waterpik Water Flosser used with a manual toothbrush removes significantly more plaque from tooth surfaces than interdental brushes and a manual toothbrush alone.