Fundamentos del control mecánico de la placa. I. Uso de cepillos manuales.

Abstract

Supragingical plaque bacteria are the main etiologic factor in the development of gingivitis. The accumulation of this biofilm originates the inflammatory changes characteristic of this disease. A correct supragingival plaque control is the basis of oral higiene and primary prevention of periodontal diseases. The manual toothbrush is the most universal tool in mechanical plaque control. In this review the importance of its design, frequency of use and overall efficacy will be evaluated. Also the consequences of brush wear and the secondary effects of its use on dental and periodontal tissues will be evaluated. The manual toothbrush is not efficient to attain a proper interdental cleaning. Therefore, brushing must be supplemented with a correct interdental higiene. In this review the different interproximal cleaning methods will be evaluated, both in regards to its limitations and indications.