Related Experiment Videos
Effectiveness of a calculus scaling gel
G B Maynor1, R S Wilder, S C Mitchell
1School of Dentistry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 27599-7450.
Journal of Clinical Periodontology
|May 1, 1994
Summary
This study assessed a calculus scaling gel (SofScale) for dental procedures. While safe for gums and teeth, the gel did not significantly reduce scaling time compared to a placebo.
Area of Science:
- Dental Hygiene
- Periodontology
- Clinical Dentistry
Background:
- Calculus deposition on teeth necessitates professional scaling procedures.
- Novel agents are explored to potentially improve the efficiency and ease of calculus removal.
- SofScale is a calculus scaling gel designed to aid in dental scaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of SofScale calculus scaling gel in reducing scaling time and improving procedural ease.
- To assess the safety of SofScale on gingival tissues and its potential to cause tooth sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, split-mouth clinical study involving 32 subjects.
- The Volpe-Manhold calculus index was used for baseline assessment on mandibular anterior teeth.
- SofScale was applied directly to calculus and subgingivally; pre- and post-treatment gingival and stain indices were recorded. Operator and subject questionnaires assessed ease of procedure.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant difference in scaling time was observed between the SofScale and placebo groups.
- SofScale demonstrated safety for gingival tissues.
- The gel did not promote increased tooth sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- SofScale is a safe adjunct for dental scaling procedures.
- The tested 2-minute application time did not yield significant improvements in scaling time or ease compared to placebo.
- Further research may explore different application times or formulations.