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Vibratory stimulation from powered-toothbrush: A novel approach for orthodontic pain reduction after initial archwire placement

Introduction: Vibratory stimulation has been reported as an effective means in reducing the orthodontic pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of vibratory stimulation from powered-toothbrushes as a noninvasive and nonpharmacological method of reducing pain caused after initial archwire placement and to compare it with other common modalities of management. Materials and Methods: This clinical trial included 75 patients of age 13–25 years, scheduled for fixed mechanotherapy. Patients were divided into five groups: Control, placebo multivitamin, paracetamol, chewing-gum (Cg), and powered-toothbrush. After placement of 0.016″ Nickel Titanium initial archwire (upper/lower) in each patient, the discomfort perceived at 2 h, 6 h, bedtime, 24 h, 2 days, 3 days, and 7 days were marked individually using Wong-Baker (0–5) and numeric (0–10) pain rating scales. Kruskal–Wallis test, Friedman test, unpaired t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Vibratory stimulation from powered-toothbrushes effectively reduced pain after initial archwire placement. It did not alter the pattern of pain perception, but significantly reduced the overall intensity of pain at each time interval. Cg was not found effective enough to be recommended as a routine treatment modality. Conclusion: Powered-toothbrushes can be recommended as a nonpharmacological and noninvasive substitute for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for effective pain reduction in the clinical practice.