Baseline scores and change in outcomes (plaque index, gingival index and bacterial counts) by oral hygiene method (n=21 patients)
| Outcome | Method | |
|---|---|---|
| Toothbrush | Foam swab | |
| Mean baseline plaque index (SD) | 2.1 (0.49) | 2.1 (0.42) |
| Mean baseline gingival index (SD) | 2.1 (0.57) | 2.0 (0.53) |
| Median baseline bacterial count (minimum, maximum) | 4.6×105 (2.4×103, 2.5×1010) | 5.9×105 (4.0×102, 3.1×1010) |
| Mean change in plaque index (SD) | −1.26 (0.68)* | −1.28 (0.59)* |
| Mean change in gingival index (SD) | −0.92 (0.61)* | −0.85 (0.54)* |
| Median change in bacterial counts (CFUs/sample† minimum, maximum) | −3.7x104 (−2.5×1010, 8.7×107) | −9×104 (−3.1×1010, 3.0×107) |
*Significantly different from baseline (p<0.001).
†Each sample consisted of plaque obtained from six teeth resuspended in 1 mL of transport medium.
CFU, colony forming unit.