Efficacy of Customized Toothbrush Handles in Individuals With Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial.

Abstract

Aims: Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face challenges in maintaining adequate oral hygiene due to motor, sensory, and behavioral limitations. Toothbrushes with customized handles have been proposed as assistive devices, but clinical evidence of their effectiveness remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of customized-handle toothbrushes compared with conventional toothbrushes in reducing dental plaque in these populations.

Methods and results: A non-randomized clinical trial was conducted with 28 individuals diagnosed with DS or ASD. Participants used either customized-handle or conventional toothbrushes and were followed for three weeks. Dental plaque was assessed using the modified Quigley and Hein Plaque Index at baseline, immediately after supervised brushing, and after one and three weeks. Both toothbrush types led to plaque reduction over time in both groups; however, no statistically significant differences were observed between toothbrush types at any evaluation point.

Conclusion: Customized-handle toothbrushes showed similar effectiveness compared to conventional toothbrushes in reducing dental plaque in individuals with DS and ASD and may serve as a supportive tool for oral hygiene care, particularly when combined with supervision and caregiver assistance.