Evaluation of Plaque Removal Efficacy of a Novel Dye-Containing Toothpaste: A Clinical Trial

Background: Dental plaque contributes to caries and periodontal disease, therefore efficient plaque removal promotes oral health. We hypothesize that individuals brushing with toothpaste containing plaque-indicating dye will demonstrate higher plaque removal efficacy than those using conventional toothpaste. This study tested plaque removal efficacy between a novel FDA-registered toothpaste with plaque-indicating dye and a control toothpaste without indicating dye. Methods: Thirty-one adult participants enrolled in the study were randomized and divided into two groups. Control group participants brushed with control toothpaste for two visits. Experimental group participants brushed with control toothpaste for their first visit and brushed with experimental toothpaste (PlaqueHDTM, TJA Health LLC, Joliet, Illinois) for their second visit. Participants brushed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Prior to all visits, participants discontinued oral hygiene for 12-16 hours. After brushing, participants rinsed with fluorescein solution and intraoral photographs were taken using an ultraviolet digital camera. The presence of plaque on tooth surfaces was visualized by plaque-bound fluorescein and quantified. Images from both visits were compared using custom software to calculate percentage-change of remaining plaque. Statistics (SPSS version 22.0) were performed to compare plaque reduction between groups. Results: Participants using the experimental toothpaste demonstrated significantly less plaque remaining between visits (51.3% reduction, p=0.015) than participants using only the placebo toothpaste (8.3% reduction, p=0.189). Conclusions: Mechanical plaque removal by brushing with toothpaste containing plaque-indicating dye significantly reduced plaque compared to brushing with toothpaste without dye. This innovative dentifrice may improve oral hygiene and reduce plaque-related damages to teeth and oral tissues.