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Comparative Clinical Assessment of Charcoal and Conventional Toothbrushes
Sponsor: Cairo University
Summary
Oral hygiene practices are fundamental to maintaining oral health, preventing dental plaque accumulation, halitosis, stains, gingival and periodontal diseases, and improving overall quality of life. Dental plaque plays a central role in the initiation of caries and periodontal disease by lowering enamel surface pH and promoting hydroxyapatite dissolution. Toothbrushing with toothpaste remains the most widely accepted and effective method for mechanical plaque control, with its efficacy influenced by toothbrush design, brushing technique, and duration. Recently, charcoal-infused toothbrushes have been introduced as an alternative oral hygiene aid. These brushes incorporate binchotan charcoal into nylon bristles, purportedly offering antimicrobial, deodorizing, and stain-removal properties by increasing oral pH, reducing bacterial load, and absorbing stain causing compounds. Despite growing commercial interest, scientific evidence supporting their clinical efficacy remains limited. Therefore, this randomized controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of charcoal-infused toothbrushes versus conventional toothbrushes in plaque reduction and stain removal among Egyptian adults. Plaque levels will be assessed using the Turesky and Gilmore modification of the Quigley-Hein Plaque Index, while stain removal efficacy will be evaluated through spectrophotometric color measurements using a Vita Easyshade device. Outcomes will be recorded at baseline and after four weeks of twice-daily brushing with standardized fluoride toothpaste. This study addresses a clear gap in the literature by providing clinical evidence on the effectiveness of charcoal-containing toothbrushes, thereby supporting evidence-based recommendations for modern oral hygiene practices.
Official title: Evaluation Of Plaque And Micro-Stain Removal Efficacy Of Charcoal-Infused Versus Conventional Tooth Brushes In Egyptian Adults: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
21 Years - 50 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
36
Start Date
2026-01-01
Completion Date
2026-02-20
Last Updated
2026-05-04
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
charcoal toothbrush
Participants were randomly assigned to either a charcoal-infused toothbrush (test group) or a conventional nylon toothbrush (control group). Both groups were instructed to brush twice daily for 2 minutes using standardized fluoride toothpaste and to follow the same brushing instructions provided at baseline. No additional oral hygiene aids or whitening products were allowed during the 4-week study period. Compliance was encouraged through regular reminders, and clinical assessments were performed at baseline and after 4 weeks.
Locations (1)
Faculty of Dentistry Cairo University
Cairo, Egypt