2025 Volume 59 Issue 1 Pages 19-24
Riboflavin was evaluated as a fluorescent plaque disclosing agent with minimal visible staining under natural light. Conventional plaque disclosing agents typically use organic dyes, which leave noticeable staining and raise aesthetic concerns. In contrast, riboflavin serves as a safer and more aesthetically pleasing alternative due to its fluorescence properties and established safety as a food additive. Our study demonstrated that riboflavin effectively visualizes biofilms formed by Streptococcus mutans and oral microbiota. When the oral cavity was stained with riboflavin, no significant change was observed compared to the unstained condition; however, upon exposure to blue LED light, it was confirmed that riboflavin fluoresced in the same areas as conventional organic dyes. This suggests that riboflavin enhances the visibility of dental plaque without leaving residual staining, offering a promising approach to improving oral hygiene instruction. (J Osaka Dent Univ 2025; 59: 19-24)
