Comparative cleaning efficacy of interdental brushes with different head shapes using 3D-Printed Models: An in vitro study

Abstract

Background: Good oral hygiene is essential for periodontal health and interdental aids have become a mandate, specifically in maintaining hygiene in interproximal regions inaccessible to toothbrush bristles. However, the effect of the brush head shape on the cleaning efficacy is still unknown. This study evaluated the cleaning efficacy of interdental brushes with different head shapes using CAD software and 3D printer.
Methods: 3D printed dental models with embrasure sizes of 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm and 1.2 mm were fabricated. Artificial plaque was prepared and uniformly applied to the interproximal surfaces of the molars to simulate clinical conditions. The cleaning of each model was performed with IDBs with trapezoidal, rectangular and diamond head shapes according to standard protocols. Digital photographs of the pre- and post-cleaning were taken and plaque removal was quantified by pixel-based image analysis.
Results: A statistically significant difference in the cleaning efficacy among the three interdental brush head shapes was observed across all embrasure sizes (p-value <0.001), with the trapezoidal head achieving the greatest efficacy compared to the rectangular and diamond heads.
Conclusion: The present study emphasises the importance of interdental brush head design on plaque removal efficacy in different embrasure sizes. The use of 3D printed dental models offered a standardized and reproducible evaluation of the interdental cleaning efficacy and a controlled simulation of clinical conditions.