CompletedNot Applicable

GumChucks vs Interdental Brushes in Plaque Removal.

Lebanon60 participantsStarted 2022-11-21

Plain-language summary

This study compared two ways of cleaning between the teeth, Gumchucks (a new handled dental flossing system) and interdental brushes, in Lebanese adolescents aged 10-15 years. Plaque is a soft layer of bacteria that can build up between teeth and cause tooth decay and gum problems. Toothbrushing alone cannot always clean these spaces. Extra cleaning tools, such as floss or interdental brushes, are recommended. Gumchucks uses two small handles to hold the floss, making it easier to use, especially for children. It had not previously been directly compared with interdental brushes in this age group. In this study, 60 healthy adolescents were included to use Gumchucks on one side of their mouth and interdental brushes on the other side for six months. They were asked to clean twice daily after toothbrushing. Researchers measured plaque levels between teeth, gum bleeding, time taken to clean, and which method participants and parents preferred The goal was to find out which method worked better and was preferred, to help dentists recommend the best way for young people to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

Who can participate

Age range

10 Years – 15 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy adolescents (ASA 1) aged between 10 and 15 years; * Patients who had at least 4 posterior interdental contacts; * Patients who were able to follow verbal and/or written instructions, where they were asked to perform what they understood directly after reading the written instructions and listening to the explanation. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who had antibiotics within the last 6 months; * Patients who were using antibacterial mouth rinses; * Patients with physical, intellectual, developmental, or emotional disabilities; * Patients with unilateral mastication or a nonfunctional side.

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Interdental plaque removal

Timeframe: Baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months.

Gingival inflammation reduction

Timeframe: Baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months.

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07140068

SponsorBeirut Arab University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2023-11-10

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