EVALUATION OF MECHANICAL PLAQUE REMOVAL EFFECTIVENESS OFTOOTHBRUSH AND ITS MODIFICATIONS IN INTELLECTUALLY DISABLEDCHILDREN

Background: Disability is an umbrella term that includes a problem in the body single-valued function or structure. Disabled children reveal a high prevalence of gingivitis and also show non- compliance towards brushing. Hence, the present study aimed to clinically evaluate and compare the mechanical plaque removal efficacy of Toothbrush Attached to Hand by Rubber Band, Toothbrush with a Bicycle Grip as a handle, Toothbrush with attached small bells and Normal toothbrush in the reduction of established plaque and gingivitis. Materials and methods: Out of 175 intellectually disabled children, 100 children meeting inclusion criteria were selected and randomly assigned to 4 equal groups and the toothbrushes were distributed for use according to the aforementioned brush modifications. Simplified Oral Hygiene Index and Patient Hygiene Performance Index were recorded at baseline, 30th day, 60th day, and 90th day. The efficacy of each toothbrush type was assessed by intergroup comparison. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA test. Results: Both Toothbrush with a Bicycle Grip as a handle and Toothbrush with attached small bells demonstrated superior results with statistical significance. Conclusion: Modifications in toothbrush like Bicycle Grip and toothbrush attached small bells can play an important role in creating interest among children to improve oral hygiene. These modifications are not only economical but can easily be advocated for children who are intellectually challenged. Keywords: Bicycle grip, oral hygiene, plaque removal, small bells,special child.