A Method for Quantitatively Evaluating Plaque Biofilm-Removing Capacity of a Dental Water Jet Using EPMA

Inconsistent results have been reported on the effects of dental water jet (DWJ) on plaque removal. Plaque biofilm removing capacity of the DWJ was evaluated by a new method to measure biofilm thickness using an electron-probe microanalyzer (EPMA). Area measurements of biofilm cross-sections imaged with backscattered electrons suggested that irrigation using a DWJ would be an effective means of plaque control.