Clinical efficacy of a novel radiofrequency toothbrush for tooth stain reduction and tooth whitening: A randomized controlled trial.

Background: The authors aimed to evaluate the effect of a novel radiofrequency (RF) toothbrush on tooth stains and shades compared with a sonic vibrating toothbrush (CVS Health SmileSonic Pro Advanced Clean Sonic Toothbrush, Ranir) that earned the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.

Methods: The authors conducted a single-blind prospective study over 6 weeks. Participants were randomized to 1 of 2 study groups to receive either an RF toothbrush (ToothWave, Home Skinovations [test]) or a sonic vibrating toothbrush (SmileSonic powered toothbrush, Ranir [control]) and performed twice-daily toothbrushing with fluoridated toothpaste (Crest Cavity Protection, Procter & Gamble) for 6 weeks. Tooth stains and shades were assessed using the Lobene Stain Index and VITA Bleachedguide 3D-MASTER shade guide (VITA North America) at baseline and after 4 and 6 weeks of toothbrushing. In addition, the VITA Easyshade Advance 4.0 spectrophotometer (VITA North America) was used for shade evaluation. Safety was evaluated by means of oral soft-tissue examinations at each visit. Percentage reduction from baseline was compared between the groups. Statistical analyses were conducted using Mann-Whitney nonparametric model.

Results: Eighty-six participants (43 in each group) completed the study with fully evaluable data. At baseline, the groups did not differ significantly in mean measurement scores. Percentage reductions of the measured scores were significantly greater (more extrinsic stain removal and whitening) in the test group than in the control group (P < .001). Both toothbrushes were well-tolerated, and no device-related adverse events were reported during the study.

Conclusions: The RF toothbrush produced substantial benefits in the reduction of tooth stains and whitening of tooth shade compared with a powered toothbrush (CVS Health SmileSonic Pro Advanced Clean Sonic Toothbrush, Ranir) that earned the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.

Practical Implications: The novel RF toothbrush is a safe and effective tool for stain removal and tooth whitening and can serve as an alternative to other whitening agents. This clinical trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. The registration number is NCT03885609.