Computerized Digital Imaging Analysis of the Effectiveness of a Locally Applied Anti-Plaque Agent

Abstract

This study utilized advanced computerized digital imaging software to evaluate photographs of the teeth and gums of subjects after their typical oral hygiene routine (‘before’) and compared them to subsequent photographs taken after the introduction of a tray-delivered anti-plaque agent for a 2-week time period (‘after’). The scope of this study was limited to analysis of the photographic data of 27 subjects (54 photographs). The method used to gather data required that subjects apply the anti-plaque agent (Oraparx®) to both sides of a preformed foam dental tray. The tray was placed over the dental arches covering all teeth for a period of 10 minutes. Instructions emphasized that no other changes were to be made in their normal oral hygiene routine. The before and after photographs were analyzed using a modified Quigley-Hein Plaque Index correlated with the Navy Plaque Index. Computerized digital imaging analysis was performed on a typical photograph. Analysis produced mathematical comparisons of all photographs. Computerized pixilated images measured both the area of plaque-covered tooth surface and the density of the plaque. All photographs showed a visual, clinical, and mathematically significant decrease in dental plaque biofilm. The mean and median reduction in biofilm was 48% and 43%, respectively. Specifically, subject photographs that demonstrated normal daily oral hygiene ‘before’ showed a significant absence of dental plaque biofilm ‘after’ use of the anti-plaque agent. The results of this study demonstrate that the addition of a tray-delivered anti-plaque agent is significantly more effective in the removal of dental plaque than normal oral hygiene methods alone.