Dentists ‘must address discrepancies in tooth brushing guidance’

The effectiveness of advice offered by dentists is being undermined by a lack of consensus on the best toothbrushing technique.

A new study from the University of Otago in New Zealand has been published in the British Dental Journal that examined online material on methods of toothbrushing from dental associations, toothpaste and toothbrush companies and associated organisations, as well as various dental texts.

Wide variations between recommendations on toothbrushing techniques were found in terms of how often people should brush their teeth and for how long, with the methods recommended by companies, dental associations, textbooks and research-based sources all differing.

There was also significant differences in the toothbrushing methods recommended for adults and children, with the report stating that this should be considered a matter of concern by the dental profession.

The study concluded: "Higher grades of evidence of effectiveness of toothbrushing techniques are required to inform professional bodies that develop guidelines on toothbrushing."

Speaking to BBC News, Dr Nigel Carter from the British Dental Health Foundation concurred that there is currently little evidence for recommending one technique over another, noting that most professionals prefer to modify patients' existing habits.