A Measure of Tissue Response to Frequency of Toothbrushing.

Abstract

This is a study to determine how the frequency of toothbrushing influences the health of the gums. Toothbrushing frequencies were determined by a questionnaire which attempted to overcome the natural reluctance to report deviations from popular standards. The extent of oral soft tissue inflammation was determined by oral examination. Results indicate that the health of the gums increases by significant amounts when toothbrushing frequencies are increased from never brushing through two brushings a day. If the frequency of brushing the teeth is further increased to three or more times a day, oral health continues to improve but at a greatly reduced rate.