[Quantitative measurement of sulcus fluid with new self-coloring paper indicator strips: a comparison with Periotron]

Quantitative measurements of gingival crevicular fluid are used to examine gingival inflammation. In order to simplify such measurements we evaluated for the first time testing papers with chemically bound pH indicators. The height of the fluid can be seen instantly as a color change. Calibration curves showed a rise in linear proportional increments in the magnitude of 1 mm per 0.1 microliters. To evaluate this method, we made a comparative study using 26 patients and Periotron ratings. Both methods can be regarded as congruent. Using the color-indicator paper is a methodological advantage, as measurements can be taken without the need of further devices, chemical substances or procedures.