28 - AR Toothbrushing Machine on Plaque Control, Self-efficacy and Skill of Toothbrushing in School Children

Abstract:

Objective: A mobile augmented reality (AR) simulation toothbrushing machine was first developed to train proper brushing technique for children. We aimed to evaluate the effect of AR brushing machine on the dental plaque control and brushing skills in elementary school children in Taiwan.

Methods: A school-based quasi-experimental design was conducted. In 2022, grade 3-6 students were recruited and assigned to the AR group (EG; n = 290) and the control group (CG; n = 311). The EG received a two-time repeated AR-based training for 30 minutes at two-week intervals. The CG received classroom-based brushing skills teaching. Data regarding skills and self-efficacy of toothbrushing were collected using a self-administered questionnaire before and immediately after each intervention. Plaque control record (PCR) were performed at the baseline, 2 weeks and 4 weeks after the intervention. The generalized estimating equations was used to evaluate the outcomes between two groups over time.

Results: The EG exhibited greater improvement in PCR [β = −5.17, effect size (ES) = 0.24] at the 2-week follow-ups than the CG did. The self-efficacy of toothbrushing in the EG exhibited greater improvement (β = 0.38 and 0.53, ES = 0.16 and 0.22) at the 2- and 4-week follow-up than the CG did. However, the students in the EG had less improvement in Bass toothbrushing technique (odds ratio = 0.44 and 0.49) at 2- and 4-week follow-up than the CG did.

Conclusions: The mobile AR can improve dental plaque control and self-efficacy of toothbrushing in elementary schoolchildren.

Source of Funding: This study was supported by the NSYSU-KMU joint research project (NSYSUKMU 110-P18).