Application study of micro-tooth cleaning with ultrasound
Department of Pediatric Dentistry
LIEGE / LIEGE
February 2011
Study Director: Dr. Annick Urfels
Investigator: Dr. Annick Urfels
Venue: University of Liège
Order from: EMAG AG, 64546 Mörfelden-Walldorf
The application study with the ultrasonic toothbrush Emmi-dental Professional was carried out with 20 test subjects. The age
The subjects' ages ranged from 7 to 43. I have access to the subjects' personal data.
For data protection reasons, the test subjects are listed in this report under identification numbers.
The subjects are of different nationalities and different social classes.
The following factors were taken into account in the study:
- Plaque (all subjects)
- Malocclusion (13 subjects)
- Filled teeth (obturations – 19 subjects)
- Gum recession (1 subject)
- Orthodontic treatments (fixed or removable braces – 11 subjects)
- Gingivitis (4 subjects)
- Bleeding gums (3 subjects)
- Bad breath (1 subject)
Material and method
The subjects were randomly selected for the study (random selection). Four examination sessions
were scheduled at intervals of ± 4 weeks. 1. Appointment (initial examination)
The use of the EMAG ultrasonic toothbrush was explained to the test subjects and their parents and the corresponding
Ultrasonic toothpaste was distributed. An initial examination was conducted. The results are included in this report.
2nd, 3rd and 4th examination appointment:
During these appointments,
1) Plaque indicator applied
2) Photos taken
3) The application technique is practiced (if necessary)
4) Plaque indicator applied
5) Photos realized
6) A professional teeth cleaning by me, if necessary
7) The examination results were compared with the previous status.
The results of the examinations during sessions 2, 3 and 4 are included in this report.
Comments from the subjects
a) A feeling that the teeth are cleaner and smoother (6 subjects)
b) This toothbrush is better than any other (1 test subject)
c) Everything OK (1 subject)
d) Very satisfied (1 subject)
e) Very satisfied, regardless of which toothbrush I use (1 test subject)
f) Finally no more bleeding gums (1 subject)
g) General, positive attitude
h) Gum recession is stable
Critical comments from the test subjects
a) The taste of the toothpaste (6 subjects)
b) Toothpaste is too harsh (6 subjects)
c) The time required (2 subjects)
d) Handling the ultrasonic toothbrush (the attachment is too difficult to put on)
e) The application technique is very different compared to the conventional manual toothbrush (1 subject)
f) With fixed braces, brushing teeth is complicated and difficult (1 subject).
Concluding remarks
a) Summary of the results of the application study
(please insert a general summary statement here – including with reference to the effectiveness of the
Ultrasonic tooth cleaning regarding plaque, smooth tooth surfaces, brighter (whiter) teeth and the identified
Effects in cases of gingivitis, bleeding gums and bad breath)
b) Some comments from me:
From my perspective as a pediatric dentist, I have experienced and seen progress in the use of ultrasonic toothbrushes.
This study was a lot of fun, just seeing how critical children and teenagers can be. They discuss things a lot, and I even had to prove to two participants with photos that their teeth weren't free of plaque even after brushing because they hadn't used the correct technique.
Two mothers who have suffered from bleeding gums for years have adopted this toothbrushing technique and happily told me after the third appointment that they are finally free of it.
A thought for me: How effective is this brush after jaw surgery or for people with periodontal disease?
