Total protein concentration and total bacterial load as measures of residual interproximal plaque in comparative clinical trials.

Aim: Establish total protein concentration and total bacterial load as quantitative measures of residual interproximal plaque (IPP) in a clinical model designed to evaluate oral hygiene interventions.

Material And Methods: This clinical model was a randomized, examiner and laboratory technician-blinded, parallel-design study whereby levels of residual IPP were compared for subjects using a manual toothbrush or a toothbrush+floss. Differences between interventions were compared after 7 and 21 days of use.