Dental Plaque Research Articles

Assessment of the effectiveness of a rotatable shank toothbrush compared to a conventional handle toothbrush: A multicenter, single-blind, randomized controlled trial.

The persistence of dental plaque is attributable to the inaccessibility to all surfaces of the oral cavity. Thus, an integrated team designed an innovative toothbrush comprising a brush head assembly with an upper end and a lower end, and a handle rotatably configured with the lower end of the brush head assembly. The brush head is connected to the handle through a socket-ball joint, which allows the shank and the handle to rotate at any angle between 0° and 360° with respect to one another around an axis. Additionally, the brush head bends toward the handle, maintaining a bending angle of 15°. The aim of the present randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to analyze and assess the effectiveness of a toothbrush with a rotatable shank in comparison to toothbrushes with flexible and straight handles with respect to supragingival plaque and gingival health outcomes. The secondary objective of the study was to evaluate the feedback of individuals who used the rotatable shank toothbrush. Three toothbrushes - one with a rotatable shank, one with a flexible handle and one with a straight handle - were compared in terms of efficacy in plaque and gingivitis control at 3 clinical centers (a multicenter trial). A total of 270 patients, aged 18-65 years, were included in the study. The collected data was analyzed and compared using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey's post hoc test. All groups demonstrated improvement in gingival health and a reduction in the plaque index (PI) scores. Nonetheless, the improvement was more pronounced in the group that used the toothbrush with a rotatable shank. The enhanced plaque removal and improved gingival health at all surfaces achieved with the rotatable shank toothbrush are ascribable to the incorporation of 2 features: the ability to rotate the toothbrush neck along its axis; and an inclination that facilitates access to all surfaces.

Efficacy of Cetylpyridinium Chloride Mouthwash on Denture Plaque Reduction and Microbiome Alteration in a Randomized Crossover Trial

Efficacy of Cetylpyridinium Chloride Mouthwash on Denture Plaque Reduction and Microbiome Alteration in a Randomized Crossover Trial

Oral Hygiene, Dietary Habits, and Saliva Properties in Relation to the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth Index of Dental Students: A Pilot Study

Background and Objectives: Caries development is associated with poor oral hygiene, inadequate dietary habits, quantitative and qualitative food content, and a high level of bacterial plaque. Physical and chemical changes in saliva composition and particularly changes in its buffering capability play a significant role in caries development. This study aimed to determine the predictors of poor oral health among a sample of second-year dental students. Materials and Methods: The oral health of students was estimated with clinical examination and the DMFT index. The interview included questions about demographics status (gender, age), a dietary habits questionnaire, questions about oral hygiene, and a demonstration of tooth brushing technique. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected to measure buffering capacity and pH. Results: Almost half of the students have a low level of caries experience (46.7%), followed by a slightly smaller number having a medium level (41.3%), while one in eight students (12.0%) demonstrates a high level of caries experience. Male students have a statistically higher DMFT index 5.7 ± 1.2 than female participants 4.5 ± 0.5 (p = 0.036). Significant predictors for the DMFT index score in students were milk [β-coefficient = −0.338, p = 0.011] and yoghurt [β-coefficient = 0.284, p = 0.040] consumption. All students brushed their teeth two or more times during the day, usually after waking up before breakfast and before bedtime. Most students (85.3%) apply the proper tooth brushing technique, with female students applying it more frequently (p = 0.038). The mean salivary pH was 6.9, while the mean buffer capacity was 5.8. Female respondents have a statistically lower buffer capacity (5.8 ± 0.5) than male respondents (6.1 ± 0.4) (p = 0.047). Conclusions: Dentistry students are introduced to good oral hygiene habits, especially female students, while dietary habits should be improved. However, one in eight dental students is at high caries risk. By assessing the level of caries experience, targeted strategies can be developed to promote, maintain, and enhance oral health among dental students.

Silent signals: how N-acyl homoserine lactones drive oral microbial behaviour and health outcomes

BackgroundN-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs) are small signalling molecules predominantly secreted in Gram-negative bacteria.ObjectiveThe aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of AHLs in oral health.MethodsTwo independent researchers conducted a systematic search of English language publications up to 30 June 2024 in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. They screened the title and abstract to retrieve and map out relevant studies on AHLs in oral health, in order to identify key concepts, gaps in knowledge, and areas for further research.ResultsThis study identified 127 articles and included 42 articles. These studies identified AHLs in human oral samples like saliva, dental plaque, tongue swabs, and dentin caries. The studies also found that AHLs regulate cell-to-cell communication of bacteria (quorum sensing) in mature biofilm fostering the production of virulence factors that damage the immune system. AHLs also exert biological effects on human cells and influence oral diseases such as periodontitis and oral squamous carcinoma. Researchers developed AHL inhibitors to interfere with the quorum sensing process and interrupt the communication between bacteria. These inhibitors can be classified into three main categories based on their mechanisms of action to AHLs: AHL synthesis disruptors, AHL competitive inhibitors and AHL enzymatic degraders. These AHL inhibitors can be important tools in the fight against bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-negative bacteria.ConclusionThe literatures indicate that AHLs, as quorum sensing molecules, influence bacterial communication. AHLs have a significant impact in bacterial pathogencity and play a potential role in the pathogenesis of oral diseases. Researchers have developed AHL inhibitors to disrupt bacterial quorum sensing, preventing bacteria from forming biofilms or expressing virulence factors. These studies on AHLs represent a new research direction to develop novel therapeutic strategies to manage oral diseases.

Synthesis, characterization, and evaluation of KDM4B inhibitors to attenuate inflammatory host immune response in periodontitis

Periodontal disease begins with bacterial plaque buildup in the oral cavity, inciting an inflammatory response that results in subsequent tissue damage. Even after standard treatment like scaling and root planning (SRP) to remove plaque and biofilm, the host immune response can remain hyper-active, perpetuating further tissue destruction. In these cases, aggressive periodontitis is resistant to SRP and the inflammatory response may persist, even in the absence of plaque, presenting a significant clinical challenge. Previous experiments have provided a validated model of periodontal inflammation by exposing murine macrophages to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) from Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), a pathogen linked to aggressive periodontitis. Using this model, we have previously demonstrated that the periodontal disease microenvironment triggers epigenetic changes, notably heightened lysine-specific demethylase 4B (KDM4B) activity. Data indicate that the KDM4B inhibitor ML324 can reverse the macrophage-mediated pro-inflammatory response induced by Aa LPS in vitro, providing compelling evidence for KDM4B as a rational therapeutic target for periodontal disease. In the present studies, a cohort of compounds was developed as potential KDM4B inhibitors. Synthesis and characterization of derivatives led to the discovery of compound 14 with an IC50 of 170 nM against KDM4B and immunosuppressive activity in the Aa LPS challenge model. These results suggest KDM4B inhibitors as potential therapeutic agents for modulating the immune response for periodontal disease.

Effects of Dental Sound Insulation System on Stress and Dental Fear Reduction in Pediatric Patients

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of dental sound insulation in alleviating stress and fear during dental scaling in pediatric patients. It also examined the influence of a noise-canceling application on dentist-patient communication and convenience of dental procedures. This study included 60 children and adolescents aged 7 - 16 years between April 2022 and March 2023. All participants underwent dental plaque control using an ultrasonic scaler on the maxilla first, followed by plaque control on the mandible. Dental sound insulation with active noise canceling was randomly applied to either the maxilla or mandible. Findings revealed that the stress index was significantly reduced when the application was used, with a score of 5.85 compared to 8.43 without it (<i>p</i> < 0.0001). Similarly, the dental fear score was significantly reduced to 1.17 with the application, as opposed to 2.97 without it (<i>p</i> < 0.0001). The dental sound insulation did not affect the communication between dentists and patients or the convenience of treatment. This study demonstrated that active noise canceling during pediatric dental care significantly reduced stress and fear, suggesting that it could be a valuable behavior guidance tool, particularly for children who find dental visits challenging.

Factors correlated to oral frailty and number of remaining teeth among 80-year-old population in Japan

BackgroundOral frailty is proposed as a new concept defined as an age-related gradual loss of oral functions accompanied by a decline in cognitive and physical functions in older adults. Additionally, the participants with ≥ 20 remaining teeth are associated with a lower risk of cognitive frailty in older adults. Herein, we aimed to examine the correlations between the high risk of oral frailty and oral conditions or health behavior in community-dwelling 80-year-old adults in Japan. Additionally, our secondary aim was to investigate the factors associated with ≥ 20 remaining teeth.MethodsThe present investigation was designed as a cross-sectional study using data from an adult dental health field study. This study included participants only aged 80 years in Japan. Oral frailty was evaluated using the Oral Frailty Index-8, and ≥ 4 points were defined as high risk. Oral examination was performed, and data on oral health behavior and frailty were also collected by using a self-administered questionnaire. The logistic regression analysis was conducted, with the objective variable being the risk of oral frailty groups or remaining teeth.ResultsOverall, 3,222 participants ( 1,911 female and 1,311 men) were included. Among the participants, 1,217 (37.8%) had a high risk of oral frailty. The risk of oral frailty was significantly affected by smoking status, number of remaining teeth, dental plaque, oral malodor, family dental clinic, oral concerns, osteoporosis, and shrinking body weight. Logistic regression analysis revealed that a high risk of oral frailty was significantly associated with < 20 remaining teeth and poor oral behaviors. Additionally, 1,926(59.8%) participants had ≥ 20 remaining teeth. The participants with remaining teeth ≥ 20 were significantly affected by sex, smoking status, residential district, periodontal pocket, bleeding on probing, dental plaque, and interdental cleaning. The participants with ≥ 20 remaining teeth were significantly associated with the residential district, and interdental cleaning.ConclusionsThe main clinical implication of this study is that improving behaviors regarding oral healthcare among community-dwelling individuals may be an effective way to reduce oral frailty. Moreover, ≥ 20 remaining teeth in the 80-year-old population were notably higher in the rural areas than that in the urban areas in Japan.

Probiotic Supplementation for Periodontal Diseases - An Umbrella Review.

Periodontal disease is a common condition caused by bacterial plaque that damages the supporting structures of teeth. Therefore, to manage periodontal disease, probiotic supplementation has emerged as a potential adjunct therapy. This umbrella review aims to summarize the primary findings, conclusions, and recommendations of systematic reviews and meta-analyses published on the effect of probiotics in treating periodontal disease. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken in four databases, i.e., MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar using MeSH terms like 'Probiotic*,' 'Prebiotic*,' 'Bifidobacterium,' 'Lactobacillus,' and 'Periodontitis,' along with keywords like 'synbiotic*,' 'Systematic review*,' or Meta-analysis. The AMSTAR-2 tool was used to assess the quality of the included reviews once data were retrieved. A total of 22 systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in the last decade were reviewed, and probiotics were found to have potential benefits in reducing Bleeding on Probing (BOP), Probing Pocket Depth (PPD), and gaining Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) in individuals with periodontal disease. However, there is mixed evidence on the effectiveness of probiotics in reducing gingival inflammation (GI) and dental plaque, and further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of action and potential health benefits of probiotics. The findings of this review suggest that probiotics as an adjunct treatment approach may have potential benefits for managing periodontal disease specially in terms of BOP, PPD, and CAL. However, they should not replace conventional treatments like scaling, root planing, and regular dental hygiene, which are essential for effective care.

Automated machine learning for image-based detection of dental plaque on permanent teeth

Automated machine learning for image-based detection of dental plaque on permanent teeth

Biopolymer-based oral films integrated with probiotic active compounds for improved health applications.

Orally dissolving films (ODFs) have emerged as a versatile platform that combines convenience, efficacy, and patient compliance. In this study, the cell-free supernatant of the oral probiotic Streptococcus salivarius M18 was incorporated into various biopolymer-based ODF formulations, evaluated for demolding, fragility, and flexibility. The combination of carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium alginate, and glycerol successfully formed stable films. The films were characterized by weight, thickness, pH, and disintegration times. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to analyze ODF content and release profiles in simulated saliva. Unique absorption peaks in the cell-free product-incorporated ODF samples confirmed the integration of bacterial proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids into the ODF matrix. The biological activity of the ODF carrying M18 bioactive products was assessed by its inhibitory effect on the growth of Streptococcus mutans, a pathogen linked to dental plaque and cavities. Additionally, the anti-proliferative effect on cancer epithelial cells was demonstrated. This study show that probiotic products can be integrated into bio-based thin films without losing activity, making this delivery platform promising for local and potentially systemic effects.

Dental Practitioners’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward the Etiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Peri-Implantitis

The objective of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and attitude about the etiology, diagnosis, and management of peri-implantitis among dental practitioners. Methods: An online cross-sectional study on 303 dentists in Saudi Arabia was conducted. A closed-ended survey consisting of 28 questions was designed. Three sections were created, i.e., (1) participants’ characteristics; (2) knowledge of peri-implantitis etiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and complications; and (3) the use of antibiotics to manage peri-implantitis and methods used for diagnosis and treatment. The data were analyzed using mean and percentages. Results: A total of 303 dentists participated in this study with a 78.8% response rate, comprising 80% general dentists and 20% specialists. The majority of dentists demonstrated knowledge about peri-implantitis, with 85.5% identifying bacterial plaque as an etiologic factor and 83.8% recognizing it as an inflammatory reaction. Regarding risk factors, 88.1% identified smoking and 86.1% recognized periodontitis as contributors to peri-implant disease development. In terms of clinical decision making, 63% of participants considered implant mobility as a definitive indication for implant removal, and more than half reported using crater-like bone defects surrounding implants as a diagnostic criterion for peri-implantitis. For antimicrobial therapy, amoxicillin alone (30%) was the most commonly prescribed antibiotic, followed by the combination of amoxicillin with metronidazole (29%). Despite these treatment approaches, it is important to note that currently there are no established, predictable protocols for treating any phase of peri-implant disease. Conclusion: While participating dentists demonstrated a strong understanding of peri-implantitis etiology and risk factors, particularly regarding bacterial plaque and smoking as major contributors, there was considerable variation in antibiotic selection and usage patterns. These findings suggest the need for standardized guidelines and further research to establish evidence-based protocols for managing peri-implant diseases.

Possible Effect of Passive Smoking on Gingival Health of Children in Riyadh Colleges of Dentistry and Pharmacy

Objectives: To know the level of cotinine concentration in the saliva of children exposed to secondhand smoke and know the link between smoke exposure and gingivitis. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 100 children from Riyadh Colleges of Dentistry and Pharmacy between the ages of 6 - 12 years. A questionnaire was conducted on the parents of the children to find out their smoking behavior. The sample (children) was separated into two categories: category (A) children exposed to secondhand smoke as a test sample and numbered 50 children (23 boys and 27 girls), category (B) children not exposed to smoking as an ideal sample and numbering 50 children (24 boys and 26 girls). Index of dental plaque (calculus), gum index, presence of pigmentation and saliva sample collection were recorded from each child from the two groups. Furthermore, the level of cotinine in saliva samples was determined using the ELISA technique. Results: The concentration of cotinine in saliva is prominently present in samples of children category (A) compared to category (B). A positive correlation was observed between the number of cigarettes consumed and the concentration of cotinine in saliva. On the other hand, no relationship was found between gingivitis and the concentration ratio Cotinine. The likelihood of pigmentation in children exposed to secondhand smoking is 1.14 times higher than in other children. Conclusions: Secondhand smoke can raise the concentration of cotinine in saliva and stimulate the presence of pigmentation in children's gums.

Alterations of oral microbiota in young children with autism: Unraveling potential biomarkers for early detection

Objectives: This study investigated the oral microbiota in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to determine possible alterations in microbial composition and identify potential biomarkers for early detection.Methods: Dental plaque samples from 25 children with ASD (aged 3–6 years; M = 4.79, SD = 0.83) and 30 age- and sex-matched typically developing (TD) children were analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing.Results: The results showed lower bacterial diversity in children with ASD compared to controls, with distinct microbial compositions in the ASD and TD groups. Six discriminatory species (Microbacterium flavescens, Leptotrichia sp. HMT-212, Prevotella jejuni, Capnocytophaga leadbetteri, Leptotrichia sp. HMT-392, and Porphyromonas sp. HMT-278) were identified in the oral microbiota of ASD children, while five discriminatory species (Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. polymorphum, Schaalia sp. HMT-180, Leptotrichia sp. HMT-498, Actinomyces gerencseriae, and Campylobacter concisus) were identified in TD controls. A model generated by random forest and leave-one-out cross-validation achieved an accuracy of 0.813. Receiver operating characteristic analysis yielded a sensitivity of 0.778, a specificity of 0.857, and an AUC (area under curve) of 0.937 (95 % CI: 0.82 – 1.00) for differentiating children with and without ASD.Conclusion: The present study has unveiled significant disparities in the oral microbial composition between ASD and TD children.Significance: These findings contribute to understanding the microbiome-brain connection in ASD and its implications for early detection and management. Further research is needed to validate these oral bacterial biomarkers and explore their mechanistic association with ASD pathophysiology.

Exploring the Role of Soft Tissue Management in Implant Prosthodontics

Implant prosthodontics has transformed dental rehabilitation by providing reliable solutions for missing teeth, emphasizing the crucial role of soft tissue management in achieving both functional and aesthetic outcomes. The peri-implant mucosa, formed during the healing process, acts as a biological seal, essential for maintaining implant health and preventing bacterial infiltration. This review highlights the significance of soft tissue management, including techniques like autogenous gingival grafts and digital tools, and discusses innovative approaches such as one-step peri-implant emergence profiles. Key challenges include managing complications like peri-implantitis and peri-implant mucositis, which are often linked to bacterial infections and plaque accumulation. Effective management strategies involve meticulous oral hygiene, mechanical debridement with non-metal tools, and advanced treatments for severe cases, such as flap surgeries and regenerative techniques. The review underscores the importance of patient selection, radiographic evaluation, and the biological principles of soft tissue healing around implants. Ongoing research and clinical trials are crucial for optimizing these approaches and achieving superior results in implant therapy.

Efficacy of Triphala and Chlorhexidine Mouthwashes on Gingival Inflammation and Dental Plaque in Children: A Systematic Review

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy of Triphala and chlorhexidine mouthwashes in reducing gingivitis and dental plaque in children. Methodology: A literature search was confined to the English language using MeSH terms conferring to PICO format in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Ovid (SP), covering the period from January 1960 to August 2022. A search in Google Scholar and the grey literature and a hand search of references was performed to find additional data. Suitable studies were selected based on the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quality analysis of the selected studies was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Controlled Trials. Results: Seven hundred and forty-seven articles were retrieved from three databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Ovid (SP), and other sources). Results: A total of 747 studies were retrieved from electronic databases and hand searches. After removing duplications, 519 were available; among them, 495 irrelevant citations were excluded with inclusion and exclusion criteria. Twenty-four citations were eligible for abstract screening, and fourteen citations were excluded including invitational studies, narrative reviews, animal studies, and studies that involved adults. Finally, studies for full texts were screened for eligibility for the research question, and then only five studies were available upon full-text phase analysis. The five studies involved 1740 children to evaluate the efficacy of Triphala and chlorhexidine mouthwashes in reducing gingivitis and dental plaque in children. Among them, one article showed low risk, three articles showed moderate risk, and one article showed high risk. Conclusion: While Triphala and chlorhexidine both reduce gingivitis, reports indicate that Triphala is less effective than chlorhexidine in improving plaque index scores. Further controlled studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of Triphala mouthwash in children.

A chewing gum containing ethylenediaminetetraaceticacid (EDTA), methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM) and xylitol works comparable to chlorehexidine mouthrinse

Dental plaque provides a proper environment for the growth and activity of bacteria responsible for periodontal diseases and caries. As a result, it should be removed by individuals to prevent periodontal diseases and caries. There are different mechanical and chemical plaque control methods. In one study is shown that dental plaque removal efficacy of dentifrice containing Ethylenediaminetetraaceticacid(EDTA)/Methylsulfonylmethane(MSM) was nearly five times that of commercially available fluoride toothpaste. In another study, authors found that xylitol-containing chewing gums caused a marked reduction in the count of Streptococcus Mutans compared to conventional ones. This difference was highly prominent in individuals with poor oral hygiene. In this study we assessed the synergic effects of Xylitol, EDTA and MSM in a chewing gum in comparison with chlorhexidine mouthwash. This study was a crossover, randomized clinical trial. Twenty-four patients were divided in two groups randomly. At the baseline scaling and root planing was done for each patient. Group1 used chlorhexidine mouthwash twice a day. Group2 used novel chewing gum for 15 min twice a day. After 14 days, for every patient O’leary plaque index, gingival index and sulcus bleeding index were reevaluated and recorded. Professional brushing was done for patients. 14 days were considered as wash-out period. After that, method of plaque control of groups was changed. After 14 days, all patients were reevaluated and recorded and were compared with previous data. Samples in 2 groups had no significant difference in age and sex. Paired sample t test revealed that there were significant differences between first and second period for O’leary plaque index, gingival index and sulcus bleeding index in Group1 (P < 0.05). But in Group2 there were no differences between first and second period for all indexes. Also independent sample t test showed that there were no significant differences between baseline, after first treatment and after second one for all indexes in both groups (P > 0.05). According to regression model results, type of treatment had no effect on mean of all indexes. According to our findings which showed the similar efficiency of novel chewing gum and chlorhexidine mouthwash in improving and reducing plaque and gingival indexes, we can conclude that novel chewing gum can be introduced as an effective, cheap and accessible tool for dental plaque control.

Comparative Evaluation of Morphological Characteristics of Root Surfaces after Scaling and Root Planing under Naked Eye and Magnification: An In vitro Scanning Electron Microscope Study

Abstract Introduction: The primary aetiologies of periodontitis include bacterial plaque and calculus. Effective periodontal treatment necessitates the thorough removal of these deposits through scaling and root planing (SRP) using manual and ultrasonic instruments. However, the roughness introduced by these instruments can impact bacterial colonisation, plaque formation and calculus deposition. This study aims to evaluate and compare the morphological characteristics of root surfaces after SRP performed under the naked eye and magnification using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Materials and Methods: This in vitro study included single-rooted extracted teeth from patients with chronic generalised or localised periodontitis. The teeth were divided into two main groups: manual instrumentation with Gracey curettes and ultrasonic instrumentation. Each group was further subdivided based on the method of visualisation during SRP: naked eye, dental loupes (×2.5 magnification) and dental operating microscope (×12 magnification). The samples were evaluated for root surface roughness, remaining calculus and smear layer presence using indices such as the remaining calculus index (RCI) and roughness and loss of tooth substance index. Results: A total of 60 samples were analysed, with 30 samples in each main group, further divided into three subgroups of 10 each. The results indicated statistically non-significant differences in smear layer presence between groups. However, significant differences were observed in root surface roughness and remaining calculus between manual and ultrasonic instrumentation, particularly under higher magnifications. Ultrasonic instrumentation under magnification provided smoother root surfaces compared to manual instrumentation, although manual instrumentation showed lesser RCI in comparison to ultrasonic instrumentation. Conclusion: SRP performed under magnification, particularly with ultrasonic instruments, results in smoother root surfaces with less remaining calculus. The use of magnifying tools such as dental loupes and operating microscopes enhances the efficacy of periodontal treatment by providing better visualisation and illumination.

Relationship Between the Presence of Red Complex Species and the Distribution of Other Oral Bacteria, Including Major Periodontal Pathogens in Older Japanese Individuals.

Red complex bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia) have high virulence in periodontal disease. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the detailed symbiotic relationships between the red complex and other oral bacteria in older Japanese individuals. Polymerase chain reaction was performed using dental plaque from 116 subjects and specific primers for ten periodontal pathogens. The detection rate of Prevotella intermedia and Capnocytophaga sputigena was significantly higher in P. gingivalis-positive subjects than in P. gingivalis-negative subjects (p < 0.05). The detection rate of Campylobacter rectus, Prevotella nigrescens, Capnocytophaga ochracea, and Eikenella corrodens was significantly higher in T. forsythia-positive subjects than in T. forsythia-negative subjects (p < 0.01). In a comprehensive analysis of oral microbiomes, three red complex species-positive subjects had significantly higher α-diversity than only P. gingivalis-positive subjects (p < 0.05) and had significantly lower β-diversity than only T. forsythia-positive subjects (p < 0.01). In the taxonomy analysis, Porphyromonas was significantly higher in three red complex species-positive subjects than in only P. gingivalis-positive and only T. forsythia-positive subjects (p < 0.01). These results suggest that each red complex species forms a unique oral microbiome and individuals positive for all red complex bacteria may harbor oral bacteria that confer a significant advantage in developing periodontal disease.

Correlation of Parental and Child Dental Plaque Levels: A Clinical Study

Objective: This clinical study aimed to explore the correlation between dental plaque levels in parents and their children. Specifically, the study examined differences in plaque correlation between mother–child and father–child pairs and evaluated the role of parental education in influencing children’s oral hygiene practices. Materials and Methods: A total of 196 subjects were recruited, comprising 49 mother–child and 49 father–child pairs, with children aged 6 to 15 years. Dental plaque was assessed using the O’Leary Plaque Control Record, applying a liquid plaque discloser and explorer. The plaque index was calculated as the percentage of dental surfaces with visible plaque relative to the total surfaces examined. Results: The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between the parental plaque index (IP_PARENTS) and the children’s plaque index (IP_CHILD) (p &lt; 0.001), indicating a strong relationship. While the father’s plaque index (ID_PARENTS(FATHER)) showed a marginally positive effect on IP_CHILD (p = 0.0589), the interaction between father identification and IP_PARENTS had a significant negative impact (p = 0.0344), suggesting that paternal influence on children’s plaque levels may vary. The model accounted for 28% of the variability in IP_CHILD (pseudo R2 = 0.2758). Conclusions: The analysis demonstrated a significant association between parental and child plaque levels, with minor differences observed between maternal and paternal influence. No significant effects were found for the age or gender of the children. Overall, increased plaque levels in parents were associated with higher plaque levels in their children, with slight variations depending on the parent’s role.

Clinical effectiveness of picture exchange communication system (PECS) on 5- to 7-year-old children's oral health.

To assess the impact of the picture exchange communication system (PECS) on oral hygiene motivation and practices in healthy children aged five to sevenyears. A total of 160 healthy children aged five to seven years were included in this study. At the first visit, the participants' guardians were asked to answer a questionnaire focussing on the sociodemographic, and the oral hygiene habits of the participants. All participants received a clinical examination to assess their dental caries experience using the ICDAS score, gingival condition using the gingival index (GI), and the amount of accumulated dental plaque using the Turesky Modification of the Quigley-Hein Plaque Index (TQHI), followed by comprehensive explanation of the proper oral hygiene protocol. The participants were randomly divided into two equal groups; the PECS group and the control group. The participants were re-assessed after 6months. The collected data were statistically analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23 at a p-value ≤ 0.05. By the end of the follow-up period, the PECS group reported significantly greater adherence to regular tooth brushing (p = 0.006) with a frequency higher than twice per day (p < 0.000) and no need for parental motivation (p < 0.001), and had significantly lower mean GI and TQHI scores (p < 0.000). Most of the participants' guardians reported that the PECS cards were useful for use and that they would continue to use them 66/76 (86%). The PECS was found to be effective in motivating children to adhere to proper tooth-brushing practices, as reflected by improvements in their oral health status and gingival condition.