Effects of two toothbrushes on plaque, gingivitis, gingival abrasion, and recession: a 1-year longitudinal study.

Plaque removal is an important part of good oral hygiene. Many short-term studies have compared the effectiveness of an electric toothbrush in plaque removal to that of a conventional, manual toothbrush. Previous studies proved the electric toothbrush to be more effective on a short-term basis; however, little is known about its long-term effects. In a study that examined 32 patients over a 12-month period, the authors found electric toothbrushing to be more effective in plaque removal. The study measured the differences in abrasion, gingival recession, gingival bleeding, and plaque scores. The study also concluded that no significant gingival abrasion was caused by electric toothbrushing.