Plaque reduction in school children using a disposable brush pre-pasted with xylitol toothpaste.

Premise: The epidemiological data from many countries indicates a global increase in dental caries in children and adults. The purpose of this study was to determine if children in a school setting would accept an after lunch brushing program and if such program would be effective in reducing plaque.

Study setting: A small school of 300 students in Eastern Tennessee was selected to participate of which 200 elected to brush after lunch for 30 school days. Fifty-four students' anterior teeth were stained with a disclosing solution before, during and at the end of the study. The 54 students represented 4 students from each grade level, kindergarten through eighth grade

Materials: An ADA approved 27 tuft brush pre-pasted with a paste made with 49% by weight of xylitol was given to each child after lunch. The paste did not require water or the need to spit. A short, 4 minute, musical educational video on correct brushing was designed with the assistance of the mathematics teacher to be shown while the students brushed.

Results: The students, principal, and the staff readily accepted the concept and were very cooperative and appreciative. The reduction in plaque levels was dramatic.