Evaluation and Comparison of Plaque Detection with Novel Fluorescent Plaque Detector and Disclosing Agent: A Clinical Study

Background: Plaque detection and control are extremely important for maintaining individual’s oral hygiene. Initially disclosing agents were used to detect plaque, which is time consuming. To overcome the disadvantages of disclosing agents, many newer methods have been introduced for easy and simple plaque detection method. The use of fluorescence spectroscopy is a fast and effective way to monitor oral health condition and for plaque detection. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of newly arising plaque detector device and compare with Disclosing agent. Methodology: A Comparative Study with a sample size of 100 was taken and plaque was examined using plaque detector (50 patients) and disclosing agent (50 patients) respectively on the anterior teeth facial surfaces. The disclosing dye solution was applied on a fresh cotton swab till the swab was fully saturated and then gently applied on the tooth surfaces. Excess solution was washed away by allowing the participants to rinse with tap water once. Fluorescence photographs were taken of the vestibular aspect of the teeth in the upper and lower jaw using fluorescent plaque detector. Plaque scores were recorded using Quigley-Hein Plaque Index. Independent t test is used to determine the significant differences between both the groups. Results: Clinical assessment and statistical analysis showed that fluorescent plaque detector is more significant and efficient than Disclosing agent. Conclusion: It can be concluded that fluorescent plaque detector is simple, easy to use, and convenient when compared to Disclosing agent. Key words: Dental plaque; Plaque detection; fluorescent plaque detection; autofluorescence; Oral hygiene;