Comparative effect of chewing sticks and toothbrushing on plaque removal and gingival health.


Abstract
PURPOSE:
The aim of the study was to compare the effect of the chewing stick (miswak), and toothbrushing on plaque removal and gingival health.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The participants comprised 15 healthy Saudi Arabian male volunteers aged 21 to 36 years, attending the Dental Center at Al-Noor Specialist Hospital in Makkah City in Saudi Arabia. The study was designed as a single, blind, randomized crossover study. The Turesky modified Quigley-Hein plaque and Löe-Silness gingival indices and digital photographs of plaque distribution were recorded at baseline, one week after professional tooth cleaning, and again following three weeks use of either the miswak or toothbrush. Professional tooth cleaning was repeated, and after a further three weeks use of either the miswak or toothbrush (using the alternative method to that used in the first experimental period), plaque and gingival indices, and digital photographs of plaque distribution were recorded anew.

RESULTS:
Compared to toothbrushing, the use of the miswak resulted in significant reductions in plaque (p < 0.001) and gingival (p < 0.01) indices. Image analysis of the plaque distribution showed a significant difference in reduction of plaque between the miswak and toothbrush periods (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:
It is concluded that the miswak is more effective than toothbrushing for reducing plaque and gingivitis, when preceded by professional instruction in its correct application. The miswak appeared to be more effective than toothbrushing for removing plaque from the embrasures, thus enhancing interproximal health.

That is so interesting! I used to live in Saudi Arabia and used to see the people there using these sticks all the time. I assumed that they were for cleaning teeth, and I know that they do something similar with sugar can sticks in Africa. Funny thing is though, that they all seem o have lovely teeth, are we going wrong somewhere do you think? Or is it all the rubbish we eat and drink?