The Use Of Phase Contrast Microscopy In Clinical Dentistry,

Abstract

Phase microscopy has for some time been used as a motivational tool in oral hygiene programs. In such use bacterial plaques are demonstrated to the patient. As a refinement of this use some information on relationships between disease status and plaque elements were needed. A blind evaluation was performed of the plaque elements taken from inflammed and from clinically nofmal gingival areas of the same mouth. The only elements related significantly to the clinical picture were spirochetes and vibrios and these only in the more sever gingivitis cases. It is concluded that while the phase microscope remains a highly useful motivational tool, its use in following gingival disease course is possible only if one recognizes that microscopic plaque evaluation will not necessarily mirror macroscopic tissue evaluation. (Author)