Tapered versus end-rounded toothbrush bristles for improving gum health
Official title: Evaluation of Toothbrush Bristles in Reduction of Plaque, Inflammation, Bleeding, and Abrasion: A Comparative Study of Tapered vs. End-Rounded Bristles
Run by State University of New York at Buffalo · NCT07306026 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study will test whether tapered or end-rounded toothbrush bristles better remove plaque and improve gum health in adults with gingivitis or mild periodontal disease.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | State University of New York at Buffalo Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Buffalo, New York) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 21, 2025 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | November 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | August 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07306026 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–70 with at least 20 natural or restored teeth, elevated plaque (average PI >2) and >20% bleeding on probing who can comply with study procedures are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People with advanced periodontal pockets (PPD ≥5 mm), major oral pathology, or physical limitations preventing normal brushing are unlikely to benefit from the results.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a randomized clinical trial comparing two toothbrush bristle designs: tapered bristles and end-rounded (regular) bristles. Adults will be randomly assigned one of the two toothbrushes to use at home and followed at the SUNY Buffalo School of Dental Medicine. Outcomes include plaque index, probing pocket depth, clinical attachment, bleeding on probing, and signs of soft tissue abrasion. Participants must meet eligibility criteria including age 18–70, at least 20 teeth, average plaque index >2, and >20% bleeding sites, while those with probing depths ≥5 mm or major oral pathology are excluded.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, one bristle design could be shown to remove more plaque and reduce gum bleeding or irritation, guiding better toothbrush choice for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Prior comparisons of bristle designs exist with mixed results, so this builds on modest existing evidence rather than being wholly novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Must have read, understood and signed an informed consent prior to being entered into the study. * Must be 18 to 70 years of age, male or female. * Have at least 20 natural or restored teeth, not including implants. * Must have average Plaque Index of greater than 2 at screening. * Must have more than 20% of pockets with bleeding on probing at screening. * Agree not to have a dental prophylaxis or any other elective, non-emergency dental procedures any time during the study. * Agree to refrain from regular oral hygiene regimen for 24 hours and eating for 4 hours before the appointment in the study. * Agree to abstain from the use of any dental products other than those provided in the study. * Agree to comply with the conditions and schedule of the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Physical limitations or restrictions that might preclude normal tooth brushing. * Evidence of gross oral pathology * Periodontal probing pocket depths (PPD) ≥ 5mm. * Evidence of major soft tissue lesions or trauma at the baseline visit as determined by the examiner. * Chronic disease with concomitant oral manifestations * Subjects who are currently undergoing, or require, extensive dental work, orthodontic treatment or periodontal surgery, or orthodontic treatment in the preceding 3 months * Currently using bleaching trays * Eating disorders * Recent history of substance abuse * Smoking \>10 cigarettes/day * Participation in other clinical studies within 14 days of screening * Pregnancy
Where it's running
-
SUNY Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Buffalo, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Marcelle Nascimento, DDS, MS, PhD — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Senior Clinical Research Coordinator, Bachelor of Science
- Email: sgerlach@buffalo.edu
- Phone: 716-829-6397
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.