Sex and age as modifying factors in supragingival biofilm removal

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the biofilm removal capacity according to sex and age. Material and methods: Seventy individuals aged between 21 and 70 years were included. Modified Navy Board Index (MNBI) was performed by a calibrated examiner. Individuals brushed their teeth with a brush for a minute, and the MNBI was applied again. The volunteers were asked to use the brush for seven days, twice a day, with standardized toothpaste. On day 7, the same procedures of the first visit were made. The percentages of removal of supragingival biofilm (whole-mouth, interproximal and gingival margin line) were calculated for each of the experimental periods. Comparisons were performed between genders and age using the t-test for independent samples. The significance level adopted was 5%. Results: At baseline and after 7 days, women presented more dental plaque in whole mouth than men (p 37 years or older (p <0.05). The analysis of plaque reduction according to sex did not show any difference between groups. Conclusion: There was a greater potential for better efficacy of plaque removal in younger individuals. Gender does not affect such potential.