Evaluating the Change in Skills Observed with a Novel Brushing Technique Based on Sequence Learning Using Video Bio-Feedback System in Children

Background: Amongst young children an easy but adequately effective fones or horizontal scrub methods have often been advocated and is employed. Fones technique is indicated for young children and others who do not have the proper muscle development for the more complex techniques. Our observation is that children practicing this technique concentrate more on front buccal surfaces of the teeth and neglect inner surfaces of teeth. To overcome this problem modification in technique is required.

Aim: The aim of the study is to describe the brushing technique based on sequence learning principle and to evaluate change in skills observed after teaching and practicing this technique with video bio-feedback system.

Methods: The process of brushing starting from dispensing of the paste on brush till completion of brushing was video recorded for each child in a standardized way by expertise before and 12 weeks after the training of new brushing method. Data brushing skills were collected and was statistically analyzed.

Results: Overall change observed in learning skills of children with new brushing method as compared to innate method in both maxillary and mandibular arch showed statistically significant improvement with new brushing method (p<0.001).

Conclusion: For children tooth brushing should be presented as a habit and an integral part of the daily hygiene routine. Brushing technique based on sequence learning principle technique can be recommended as a novel method of brushing for children.