Healthcare providers are aware that there are no available products that provide a safe, efficacious and a cost effective means to deliver oral hygiene to special needs and circumstance patients. The currently available products provide cosmetic utility but neither therapeutic nor preventative oral health care. Their use does not contribute to decreasing infective complications or resource consumption. They are discussed below.

• Plak-Vac, distributed by Trademark Medical

Trademark Medical is the distributor of the Plak-Vac. Its strengths are product recognition and its suction ability. It is recognized as a dental product. This product’s weakness stems from its limited intended use, poor claims for safety and efficacy, lack of an irrigation system to augment debris removal, and the need to add both a suction source and exogenous fluids to the mouth. The product is also reusable and has neither function control nor associated dentifrice nor treatment solutions. It is considered a “suction tool for teeth.”

• Glycerin Swabs (foam sticks) made by VHA, Inc.

This has been the market leader for several years, but it is now being replaced by the Toothette. The weaknesses of this product lie in lack of safety, efficacy and precise indications. The swabs do not have therapeutic indications. This product has great market recognition but limited penetration.

• Toothettes, made by Sage Products, Inc.

This is a strong product because of name recognition and availability. It is similar to the glycerin swab with the same cosmetic intended use. It is marketed more aggressively than Glycerin Swabs. The weaknesses of Toothettes are similar to those of glycerin swabs. Their use and penetration is limited by poor safety associated with its intended use.