Using Ultra-High Frequency Ultrasound to Compare Healthy and Gingivitis-Affected Gum Tissues

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the differences in gingival tissue between healthy individuals and those with gingivitis, a condition marked by gum inflammation caused by bacterial build-up. This observational study aims to assess the changes in the ultrastructure of gingival tissue during inflammation. Gingivitis is an important risk factor for periodontitis, and understanding tissue variations may improve knowledge about this condition. Participants with gingivitis and healthy controls will undergo ultra-high frequency ultrasonographic scans at 70 MHz to examine their gum tissues. Scans will be performed on three areas of each dental arch, including the front, middle right, and middle left sections. The study evaluates gingival thickness, tissue echogenicity, and vascularization through a resistive index to compare the two groups. During the study, participants will receive one ultrasonographic scan at enrollment. Researchers will measure echogenicity as the primary outcome and assess vascular parameters, tooth decay index DMFT, probing pocket depth PPD, full-mouth bleeding score FMBS, and full-mouth plaque score FMPS as secondary outcomes. This study will continue until July 2028 and involves adults aged 18 to 70 years. Participants will provide informed consent and undergo assessments to monitor gum health.

Application of Ultra-high Frequency Ultrasonography (UHFUS) to the Study of Gingival Tissues