Is Professional Tooth Cleaning Necessary for Managing Gingivitis (Gingival Inflammation) if Subjects Use Intelligent Toothbrushes?

Periodontitis is highly prevalent and develops from gingivitis caused by plaque accumulation. Managing gingivitis is the "best-buy" approach for preventing periodontitis and avoiding its local and systemic sequelae. Professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR), which aims at removing plaque biofilm and dental calculus, is generally considered effective in treating gingivitis when provided in the context of oral hygiene instructions. However, delivering PMPR to large populations such as the Chinese population poses formidable challenges, including the formation of an adequate workforce. Achievement of adequate oral hygiene standards is critical to the successful treatment of gum disease. However, many studies have shown poor patient compliance with routine oral hygiene instruction. A new technology based on an intelligent electric toothbrush (i-Brush) and the Internet of Things shows good application prospects. A previous study has verified the effectiveness of optimal oral care regimens, which involve the use of an i-brush and the application of standard toothpaste, in enhancing the adherence and performance of self-performed oral hygiene, leading to significant savings and a more effective allocation of healthcare resources. However, it is unclear whether PMPR still plays an important role when combined with such optimal oral care regimens in managing gingivitis and early-stage periodontitis. This study aims to determine whether the effect of the optimal oral care regimen in improving gingival inflammation in gingivitis and stage I periodontitis is not inferior to the effect of the combination with PMPR.