In a more recent study,researchers examined the growth of bacteria in 10 healthy volunteers who abstained from brushing for 4 days after an extensive preparatory period during which they received extensive professional tooth cleaning. Plaque was measured on days 0, 1, 2, and 4 during the no brushing phase. Plaque and thenumber of bacteria in the plaque haincreased by day 4. The number of
bacteria increased, as did the presence of bacterial species that have been linked to periodontal disease.With the advent of powered toothbrushes, the question was aske
whether or not these devices improve plaque removal. In a recent Cochran
meta-analysis, results of 42 trials involving 3855 participants from the general publi
indicated that powered toothbrushes with a rotation oscillation action reduced plaque and gingivitis more than did manual toothbrushes.