Measuring early plaque formation clinically

Area of Science:

• Periodontology
• Dental Plaque Research
• Preventive Dentistry

Background:

• Early plaque formation (EPF) and its subgingival extension are critical factors in periodontal disease.
• A plaque-free zone (PFZ) may indicate reduced plaque accumulation.
• Accurate measurement systems are needed to assess EPF and its spread.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel classification system for measuring early plaque formation (EPF).
• To assess the subgingival extension of EPF in relation to the presence or absence of a plaque-free zone (PFZ).
• To determine the efficacy of chlorhexidine in inhibiting EPF and its subgingival spread.

Main Methods:

• EPF was measured by three examiners over 72-hour plaque build-up periods.
• A classification system with criteria for plaque-free surfaces, presence of PFZ, and subgingival extension was used.
• A double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial assessed plaque with 0.12% chlorhexidine or placebo rinses.

Main Results:

• High intra- and inter-examiner reliability (85.43% to 75.35%) was achieved with the classification system.
• Chlorhexidine and placebo rinses showed similar plaque presence (criterion 1).
• Criterion 2 (subgingival extension) was significantly reduced with chlorhexidine (3.4%) versus placebo (44.3%).

Conclusions:

• The developed classification system accurately scores events related to early plaque formation.
• Chlorhexidine rinses effectively inhibit dental plaque colonization.
• Chlorhexidine demonstrates significant efficacy in preventing the subgingival extension of dental plaque.