Studies on the Utilization of Oxidation-Reduction Indicator for Dental Plaque Disclosing

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to demonstrate the plaque maturity accumulated on tooth surface using Oxidation-Reduction Indicator in situ. The ingredients of this disclosing solution are Methylene Blue and 2, 3, 5-Triphenyltetrazolium Chloride generally used in histochemical investigations.
No gingival inflammation and caries free subject was selected. The participant was told to abolish oral hygiene and allowed to develope the plaque on tooth surface for 7 days. On day 1, 3, 5 and 7 of no oral hygiene periods, new disclosing solution was topically applied on tooth surface.
At the time of topical application on 3 days plaque, it was disclosed in blue tone, but gradually changed to red localized to the area of gingival margin. More typical results were obtained in 7 days mature plaque. The blue tone was instantly fading and blue plaque almost changed to red within 10min.
The results of this experiments have demonstrated that it is possible to distinguish the old, thick mature plaque from new one. Patient can easily visualize the appearance of plaque changing in colour, so it is very usefull for patient motivation in periodontal practice.