Distribution of biofilm on internal and external surfaces of upper complete dentures: the effect of hygiene instruction.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate biofilm distribution over internal and external surfaces of upper complete dentures. It was also aimed at assessing the effect of oral hygiene instructions before and after home use of a disclosing solution.


METHODS
The sample consisted of 29 complete denture wearers whose upper prostheses were evaluated. Surface biofilm was disclosed by means of a 1% neutral red solution and quantified with regard to internal and external surfaces. Oral hygiene information was provided on an individual basis. During the second stage, an amount of disclosing solution was given for domestic use.


RESULTS
Internal and external surfaces presented a similar amount of biofilm, which was concentrated over the area of the posterior teeth area, palatal rugae and the internal vestibular incline of the distobuccal flange. This pattern was maintained during the study. However, overall amounts were reduced following denture hygiene information. The use of disclosing solution by subjects at home resulted in a further reduction.


CONCLUSIONS
It was concluded that biofilm deposits were similar over assessed surfaces, regardless of the type of procedure but irregular areas presented greater amounts. Oral health instruction was effective in reducing the biofilm, in particular when associated with home use of a disclosing agent.
Paranhos
Helena de Freitas Oliveira
Hde F
Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, Ribeirão Preto School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. helenpar@forp.usp.br
da Silva
Claudia Helena Lovato
CH
Venezian
Giovana Cherubini
GC
Macedo
Leandro Dorigan
LD
de Souza
Raphael Freitas
RF
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D018441:Biofilms; D003827:Denture, Complete, Upper / Q000382:microbiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009910:Oral Hygiene / Q000193:education*; D009911:Oral Hygiene Index; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D014099:Toothbrushing / Q000379:methods