The effect of locally released oxygen on the development of plaque and gingivitis in man

An experimental gingivitis study was designed to test the effect of a 5-min twice daily oxygen application on the development of plaque and onset of gingivitis. A method for the local application of medical grade oxygen to the upper anterior teeth was developed, with the lower anterior teeth used as controls. Fourteen periodontally healthy dental students of average age 21.9 years participated in the study. There was no significant effect of oxygen on plaque formation, crevicular fluid flow, or the number of gingival bleeding sites. Experimental and control gingival segments exhibited bleeding on probing at an average of 6.6 days after cessation of mechanical plaque control, much earlier than reported in other experimental gingivitis studies.