The aim of this study is to investigate the end of filaments of the different toothbrushes in the market through the stereomicroscope and to evaluate the % of rounded-end filaments considered to be acceptable.

9 brands, total 11 type toothbrushes were tested. 2 toothbrushes of each type which is marked as roundedend filaments were tested. The toothbrushes which are not marked as rounded-end filaments were excluded. The domestic as well as foreign toothbrushes which are familiar to consumers were tested.

2 tufts of each toothbrushes were cut and examined by stereomicroscope using 40× magnification. The procedure was carried out with blind-technique, and the digital photographs were taken. Besides the % of rounded-end filaments, total tufts number, material of the tuft, stiffness, and other special characteristics were recorded.

By the classification of Silverstone and Featherstone, rounded-end filaments were examined and counted.

The results shows that there are different range of rounded-end filaments according to the toothbrush types(17.7%-91.2%). Atman toothbrush has the most rounded-end filaments(91.2%) among the observed toothbrushes, and the Advantage Plus(Oral-B) has the next(86.75%). E-Clean #411 has the least(17.70%) and E-Clean #410 of the same brand has also low % rounded-end filaments(20.60%). While G.U.M #409(Butler) has 67.90% rounded-end filaments, G.U.M #471 of the same brand has comparative low 41.83% rounded-end filaments. 4 types of total 11 have the rounded-end filaments over 80%, however other 4 types have under even 50%.

Considering that the correct brushing habit with a toothbrush which has rounded-end filaments can protect the gingival injury and tooth abrasion, it is thought that we dentists need to give the correct information about toothbrush to the patients.