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Effects of Chewing Gum on Plaque Index: A 3-Dimensional Colorimetric Analysis
Luca Levrini1, Piero Antonio Zecca2, Virginia Bellora3
1Department of Human Science and Innovation for the Territory, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy.
Dentistry Journal
|October 28, 2025
Summary
Chewing xylitol- and fluoride-containing gum significantly reduced dental plaque. Novel 3D colorimetric analysis proved a reliable method for plaque quantification, correlating well with traditional Plaque Control Record (PCR) methods.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Dental plaque accumulation is a primary factor in oral diseases.
- Conventional methods for plaque assessment have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate xylitol- and fluoride-gum efficacy in reducing dental plaque.
- To assess a novel 3D colorimetric analysis for plaque quantification.
- To compare 3D analysis with the Plaque Control Record (PCR).
Main Methods:
- Acute intervention study with 34 healthy adults (18-45 years).
- Plaque quantification using Plaque Control Record (PCR) and 3D colorimetric analysis (Placca Read software) via intraoral scans.
- Statistical analysis using Shapiro-Wilk and paired t-tests.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in plaque scores observed after gum chewing (p < 0.05).
- Mean plaque reduction was -14.8% in the experimental group.
- 3D colorimetric analysis demonstrated strong correlation with PCR, validating its use.
Conclusions:
- Functional chewing gum effectively reduces plaque accumulation after single use.
- 3D colorimetric analysis is a reliable and comprehensive alternative to conventional plaque indices.
