Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Detection and quantification of dental plaque is crucial in both clinical dentistry and research. Established clinical indices used to measure dental plaque have limitations. The aim of the study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of plaque quantification using a fluorescent camera (QScan Plus). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Double doubleblind study was carried out on 20 children of age ranging from 9 to 14 yrs. Plaque measurement was performed by two examiners on a total of 160 incisors at the base, 24, 36, 48, and 96 hrs. Images were captured by the fluorescent camera, digitally analyzed, and scored. Another scoring was done using Addy Plaque Index area after plaque disclosure. The average scores were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The results were within the excellent reliability category for interoperator and intraoperator repeatability. CONCLUSION: This new system provides an improved objective method of quantifying dental plaque areas with increased accuracy.