An innovative method of monitoring denture hygiene

A simple and rapid test for measuring oral hygiene was recently developed. It is based on the rate of oxygen consumption of oral expectorates of milk. This investigation modified the test to study denture hygiene. The dentures of 20 patients were immersed in 10 mL of sterile milk. After a 2-minute agitation, 3 mL of milk was added to test tubes containing methylene blue. The time required for color change at the bottom of the test tube, which is indicative of the rate of oxygen consumption, was recorded. For comparison with visual plaque accumulation, the dentures were coated with disclosing solution and the extent of plaque was scored by three examiners. A correlation was found between the plaque index scores and results of the milk test (r = -0.64; p < 0.005). The data suggest the use of this test to monitor denture hygiene.