Dental plaque identification procedure and removal

How the Test is Performed:
There are 2 methods to perform this test. One method is with disclosing tablets. One tablet is chewed thoroughly, moving the mixture of saliva and dye over the teeth and gums for about 30 seconds. The tablet contains a red dye that will color the plaque. The mouth is then rinsed with water and the teeth are examined to identify pink-stained areas (unremoved plaque). A small dental mirror may help to check all areas.

The second method is a plaque light. With this method, a special fluorescent solution is swirled around the mouth. The mouth is rinsed gently with water, and the teeth and gums are examined while shining an ultraviolet plaque light into the mouth. The advantage of this method is that it leaves no pink stains in the mouth.

How to Prepare:
Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:



How it Feels:
Your mouth may feel slightly dried out after use of the dye.

Risks:
There may be a residual pink discoloration of the lips and cheeks when the disclosing tablets are used. This discoloration is temporary.

Why this Test is Performed:
The test is performed to help identify missed plaque and improve brushing and flossing of the teeth so that areas of plaque are not left. If the plaque is not removed, it can cause tooth decay or cause the gums to bleed easily ( gingivitis ) and become red or swollen.

See also:



Normal Values:
No plaque or food debris will be seen on the teeth.

Abnormal Results:
The disclosing tablets will stain areas of plaque a dark red.
The plaque light solution will color the plaque a brilliant orange-yellow. The colored areas show where the brushing and flossing have missed. These areas need to be brushed again to get rid of the stained plaque.

Cost:
There is usually no additional charge when the test is part of a thorough professional cleaning.

Special Considerations:
The disclosing tablets may color the mouth and tongue red for a day. It is suggested that it be used at night so that the color will be gone by morning.

gingivitis ) and is hard to see because it is whitish colored like the teeth. Learn to make informed health care decisions with the Medical Encyclopedia at drkoop.com.">