Cochrane reconfirms superiority of rotation oscillation brushes

In an update of their 2003 review, the Cochrane Collaboration has re-affirmed their original findings that power toothbrushes with a rotation oscillation action (a technology pioneered by Oral-B), reduce plaque and gingivitis more than manual brushing.

The comprehensive review conducted by the non-profit health research group reviewed data from published studies conducted between 1964 and 2004 involving over 3800 subjects. The main results show "...only rotation oscillation (where brushheads rotate in one direction and then the other) is better than manual toothbrushes at removing plaque and reducing gum inflammation and is no more likely to cause injury to gums."

Importantly, the results show that power brushes, such as the Oral-B Professional Care Series, reduced gingivitis more effectively in the long term (over three months), demonstrating a 17% greater reduction in bleeding on probing when compared to a manual brush.

"Consumers and the dental community continue to be bombarded with conflicting information about differences in performance of different types of toothbrushes," said Dr Paul Warren, Vice President of Clinical Research from Oral-B. "This latest Cochrane report not only confirms the longer term health benefit of rotating oscillating technology vs manual in the reduction of gingivitis, but also that no other powered designs were as consistently superior to manual brushes. This report will reassure both consumers and dental professionals that rotating oscillating technology continues to offer an outstanding alternative to manual brushing."

Oral-B pioneered rotation oscillating technology more than 10 years ago. More recent models such as the Oral-B Professional Care 8000 incorporate 3D technology, with pulsations to thoroughly remove plaque, customised speed control and a range of special attachments, including tools for interdental and tongue cleaning.

Detailed findings about the review can be found at www.thecochranelibrary.com