Evaluation and comparison of the efficacy of low fluoridated and calcium phosphate-based dentifrice formulations when used with powered and manual toothbrush in children with autism.

BACKGROUND: Autism is a neurobiological disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, communication difficulties, and lacking manual dexterity. These limitations make the oral hygiene maintenance very difficult.

AIM: The aim of this present study is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of low fluoridated and calcium phosphate-based dentifrice formulations when used with powered and manual toothbrush in children with autism.

SETTING AND DESIGN: Sample comprised 22 children with autism who daily visited a day care and education center named ARUSHI - a center for children with special health care needs in Bhopal.

METHODS: Children were divided into two groups (Group A and B) according to toothbrush used and further divided into subgroups (A1 and B1 [low fluoridated - Pediflor toothpaste] and A2 and B2 [calcium sucrose phosphate - Enafix toothpaste]). Oral hygiene instructions and brushing technique demonstration were given every day for a period of 1-month. Oral health status was evaluated before and after the study using simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S) and its Miglani's modification for primary dentition, plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT)/deft index. The perception of parents regarding oral hygiene practices for their kids was also evaluated by an awareness and attitude questionnaire.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: OHI-S, GI, PI, and DMFT/deft were statistically evaluated using Mann-Whitney U- test.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Mean value of OHI-S decreased significantly with powered toothbrush (0.035 [P < 0.05]) in both groups. However, PI decreased significantly for Enafix when used with powered toothbrush (0.042 [P < 0.05]). Perception of parents was seen to improve significantly after 1-month study (0.000 [P < 0.05]).