Foam brushes have been used in the oral care of hospitalized patients for many years. However, no controlled study of their efficacy has been conducted. A randomized crossover study, comparing the effectiveness of a foam brush with that of a toothbrush, was carried out. The gingival condition and presence of plaque in the mouths of 29 volunteers were followed. It was shown that a toothbrush was more effective in controlling plaque levels and gingivitis.