PLAQUE REMOVAL WITH VARIABLE INSTRUMENTATION

The purpose of this study was to evaluate dental plaque removal in a n ormal healthy mouth, during routine oral hygiene appointments using di fferent techniques and without the use of any disclosing agents. 12 de ntal hygienists, randomly selected from a continuing education course, were asked to perform oral hygiene on the same patient to remove all the supra-gingival plaque without any time restriction and without the use of a disclosing agents. The plaque index score (O'Leary) was asse ssed before and after each session with the use of fluorescine and UV light source by an independent examiner. 3 groups of instruments were utilized: group A: ultrasonic scalers + prophy cups; group B: ultrason ic scalers + prophy cups + dental floss; group C: Gracey curettes + pr ophy cups. While no group was able to remove all the plaque, groups B and C performed significantly better.