IntroductIonEarly childhood is a critical period for oral health, as children are particularly vulnerable to various dental diseases due to their unique oral environment and developing dental habits. 1 The accumulation of dental plaque is the primary causative factor in the development of dental caries and periodontal diseases, serving as a precursor to these oral health issues. 2Dental plaque is defined as soft deposits that form the biofilm adhering to the tooth surface or other hard surfaces in the oral cavity, including removable and fixed restorations. 3Implementing a combination of mechanical and chemical plaque control methods can significantly mitigate the risk of oral diseases in children, promoting healthy smiles and optimal oral well-being. 3,4Mechanical plaque control is achieved through the use of toothbrushes, flosses, and interdental brushes, whereas chemical plaque control is accomplished with mouthwashes and dentifrices such as toothpaste. 5Regular toothbrushing is a highly effective method for reducing plaque accumulation on teeth, as it disrupts and removes plaque biofilm, preventing its harmful effects on oral health. 3,4A variety of evidence-based methods are
Desai et al. (2026) studied this question.