CATEGORY 92 AUSTRALASIAN DENTIST CLINICAL As dental professionals, we recognise that the accumulation of dental plaque is the primary cause of gingivitis, which, if unaddressed, can progress to periodontitis. Effective prevention and management of gingivitis are essential, not only to stop further periodontal damage but also to lower the risk of various systemic conditions. Thorough and regular plaque removal via toothbrushing and interdental cleaning remains essential, yet, in clinical practice, we often observe that daily routines at home fall short. Despite detailed instructions, patient compliance, and demonstration of proper cleaning techniques, plaque removal may still not be enough. This means that there is room for further improvement.1,2 In those cases, adjunctive oral hygiene devices become invaluable. As a complement to the regular toothbrush, TePe has developed a number of toothbrushes for those with specific needs, such as braces, implants and dentures. All products have been developed in consultation with experts in each specialist area. I’d like to highlight three specialty brushes from TePe: Compact Tuft, Special Care, and Denture Care and explore clinical situations where these tools can enhance patient outcomes. TePe Compact Tuft™: precision throughout life The Compact Tuft brush has a dense, domeshaped tuft that is perfect for targeted precision cleaning. This versatile brush is suitable for patients of all ages and can be used daily or as needed. From childhood to the elderly, the Compact Tuft is effective in a variety of situations. Studies confirm its effectiveness in controlling biofilm formation, especially along the gumline and back teeth.3,4 Consider the erupting teeth, especially primary or secondary molar: during this vulnerable eruption period, the Compact Tuft excels at precision cleaning. Patients with fixed orthodontic appliances benefit from its ability to clean around brackets, wires, and along the gingival margin, while those with troublesome wisdom teeth will find it indispensable for the daily cleaning. Yes, there are even more applications, like cleaning the distal aspect of the last tooth (especially for patients prone to gag reflex), crowded teeth, healing abutments after surgery, and for daily implant maintenance care (along gumlines, visible implant threads, bar constructions, and denture attachments). In the lower front jaw, the dense tuft is ideal for controlling calculus build-up with precise, circle-like movements. To sum it up: The Compact Tuft is very useful in a variety of clinical situations and for home self-care – while being cost-efficient and durable. TePe Special Care™: ultrasoft for delicate tissues The TePe Special Care is an ultrasoft specialty brush, boasting 12,000 bristles and is available in two sizes – regular (red) and compact (blue). It’s particularly valuable after oral surgery or for patients with exceptionally sensitive or traumatised oral tissues, including those in hospital care, with lichen planus, or undergoing radiotherapy. This brush is frequently my first recommendation post-surgery or for How TePe’s specialty brushes can help you prevent gingivitis By Michaela von Geijer, Doctor of Dental Surgery, Senior Clinical and Education Advisor at TePe HQ in Sweden Michaela von Geijer Compact tuft: Children, erupting teeth After surgery, it is always the caregiver’s decision on what product to use and when to use it Compact tuft: Various applications
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