title: Pilot evaluation of a novel test strip for the assessment of dissolved thiol levels, as an indicator of canine gingival health and periodontal status.
abstract: This study evaluated a novel test strip designed to assess thiol levels as they relate to gingival/periodontal health in dogs. The simple to use strip (similar in form to a pH test strip) provides a colorimetric signal which estimates the level of thiols dissolved in oral fluid. Among several oral sites tested (left and right lingual vestibules, lower buccal vestibule, and upper buccal gingival margin), fluid from the maxillary gingival margin gave results with the best dynamic range, and its thiol levels correlated well with several oral health parameters (Pearson coefficients between 0.55 and 0.84; P < 0.001), especially those relating directly to the gingiva. The strip, which can be used on animals which are awake, may be useful as a quick, objective assessment of periodontal health, potentially enhancing compliance for thorough examinations, and promoting earlier and better-sustained treatment programs.
authors.affiliation: College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 1008 W Hazelwood Drive, M/C 004, Urbana, Illinois 61802, USA.
authors.forename: Sandra
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Manfra Marretta
authors.forename: Maureen
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Leesman
authors.forename: Anthony
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Burgess-Cassler
authors.forename: G David
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: McClure
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Buelow
authors.forename: Misty
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Finn
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D005882:Gingival Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000662:veterinary*; D006304:Health Status; D008297:Male; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000662:veterinary*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic / Q000592:standards / Q000662:veterinary*; D012463:Saliva / Q000737:chemistry; D013438:Sulfhydryl Compounds / Q000032:analysis*
chemical_list: D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic; D013438:Sulfhydryl Compounds