Plaque removal with a novel rubber chewing wheel device: Results of a randomized clinical trial

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of a disposable rubber chewing wheel (Rolly Brush device) to remove plaque after meals. Methodology: This was a randomized, four-armed, investigator-blinded study where subjects were assigned into tooth brushing, mouthrinse, chewing gum, and Rolly® Brush groups. Plaque index was measured before and after one of the four plaque removal techniques. Questionnaires were administered to ascertain the subject's opinion of the Rolly Brush device compared with the other plaque removal methods. Results: Rolly Brush removed plaque better than mouth rinsing (p < 0.03). Subjects reported that Rolly Brush removed plaque better than mouthrinse (p < 0.001) or chewing gum (p < 0.001), but not better than tooth brushing (p = 0.365). Subjective reports indicated that the Rolly Brush device was less likely to disrupt taste compared to mouthrinse (12% versus 30% of the subjects, respectively). Subjects randomized to the Rolly Brush group also rated the device highest in terms of ease of use, although there were no statistical differences among the methods. Conclusion: These results suggest that a disposable rubber chewing wheel, the Rolly Brush device, is an acceptable means of removing plaque after meals, and should be well tolerated by the public.