Efficacy of 3D‐Printed Cleaning Splints for Approximal Dental Biofilm Removal—A Randomized Clinical Crossover Pilot Study
Marcia Spindler, Theresa Becker, Stefan Rues, Kevin Richter, Peter Rammelsberg, Andreas Zenthöfer, Diana Wolff, Valentin BarthaABSTRACT
Objectives
This study investigated the effectiveness of biofilm removal using individually customized cleaning splints (CS) as an aid for interdental brushes (IDBs).
Materials and Methods
In a randomized clinical crossover study, the effect of IDBs in combination with CS on plaque reduction and periodontal parameters was examined. Periodontitis patients received an intraoral scan to produce a 3D‐printed CS. Following a 2‐week interdental hygiene pause, they were divided into two groups: Group A: CS+IDBs, Group B: IDBs. Participants performed daily interdental cleaning at home for 2 weeks following standardized professional instruction. After another 2‐week interdental hygiene pause, the groups switched methods. Additionally, motor skills, stress levels, and nutritional quality were assessed.
Results
Thirty participants (age range 21–82 years) completed the study. CS+IDBs led to a significantly greater plaque reduction (change in Quigley–Hein plaque index, ∆QHI) compared to IDBs alone (ΔQHI = −1.38 vs. −0.23, p < 0.001). The impact on reducing gingival inflammation (GI) was limited to younger participants with no effect on bleeding on probing (BOP). Random effects ANCOVA confirmed the significant effect of CS on ∆QHI ( p < 0.001). An interaction between perceived stress and CS use on BOP indicated that stress may influence the effectiveness of CS supported plaque removal.
Conclusions
Cleaning splints are a promising approach to enhance the effectiveness of IDBs in reducing interdental biofilm.