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Concurrent Quantification of Cellular and Extracellular Components of Biofilms
Published on: December 10, 2013
Evaluation of a computerized method for denture biofilm quantification: inter-examiner reproducibility
Cláudia Helena Silva-Lovato1, Ana Maria Gomes Totti, Helena Freitas Oliveira Paranhos
1Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, Sao Paulo, Brazil. chl@forp.usp.br
Summary
Image Tool 2.02 software accurately quantifies complete denture biofilm. This computerized method demonstrated excellent inter-examiner reproducibility, making it a reliable tool for biofilm analysis.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Complete denture biofilm accumulation poses challenges in oral hygiene.
- Accurate quantification of denture biofilm is crucial for assessing treatment efficacy and patient compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy and inter-examiner reproducibility of Image Tool 2.02 software for quantifying complete denture biofilm.
- To assess the reliability of a digital image analysis method in dental research.
Main Methods:
- Two hundred digital photographs of stained complete upper denture biofilm were analyzed.
- Two examiners independently quantified the stained area using Image Tool 2.02 software over 20 days.
- Inter-examiner reproducibility was assessed using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC).
Main Results:
- The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) indicated excellent agreement between examiners (ICC = 0.993, p < 0.001).
- A difference of 1 point or less in stained area percentage was observed for 93.5% of the photographs.
Conclusions:
- The Image Tool 2.02 software is a reliable and reproducible computerized method for quantifying complete denture biofilm.
- This digital approach offers a valid tool for research and clinical assessment of denture biofilm.
