Effects of a Novel Electric Oral Hygiene Device on Salivary Redox Status: A Preliminary Ex Vivo Study

Background/Objectives: The critical role of oral hygiene in overall health has driven efforts to improve oral hygiene practices. Novel devices employing electric-based technologies have emerged as powerful allies to conventional mechanical approaches for plaque control. NeoPill is a novel electric oral hygiene device designed to assist individuals with fixed orthodontic appliances in maintaining oral hygiene efficiently. The device utilizes direct current (DC) to facilitate bacterial removal from tooth surfaces and gingival tissues. Although the antimicrobial effects of electric-based devices, including NeoPill, are recognized, evidence concerning their impact on salivary biochemical parameters is scarce, especially in relation to oxidative stress. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effects of NeoPill-derived DC on the redox status of saliva samples obtained from smokers. Methods: Saliva samples were analyzed after a 30-s exposure to NeoPill-derived DC and compared with untreated samples. Salivary pH, buffering capacity, and total protein concentration were measured, along with key salivary biomarkers of oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity. Results: The applied treatment did not significantly affect salivary pH, buffering capacity, or total protein content. Furthermore, NeoPill-derived DC treatment did not induce reactive oxygen species production or lipid peroxidation. No changes were observed in reducing power, glutathione-dependent defense, or the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase and superoxide dismutase. Conclusions: These findings suggest that NeoPill-derived DC does not alter the redox status of smokers’ saliva under the applied conditions. However, it should be noted that this is a preliminary study with a small sample size, which represents a key limitation.