DISCLOSING AGENTS .

DISCLOSING AGENTS A disclosing agent is a preparation in liquid, tablet, or lozenge form that contain a dye or other coloring agent In dentistry, a disclosing agent is used to identify bacterial plaque deposits for instruction, evaluation and research

Bacterial plaque is nearly colorless unless stained by food, beverages or tobacco. After use of a disclosing agent, the soft deposits pick up the colour of the agent where as the dye can be rinsed off readily from plaque-free surfaces

PURPOSE of use: Personalized patient instruction in the location of soft deposits and the techniques for removal Self-evaluation by the patient on a daily basis Continuing evaluation of the effectiveness of the instructions for the patient to determine the need for revisions of the plaque control procedures Preparation of plaque indices To gain new information about the incidence and formation of deposits on the teeth, effectiveness of specific devices for plaque control, antiplaque agents etc

IDEAL PROPERTIES of DISCLOSING AGENT: 1\Intensity of color: The colour should contrast with normal colors of oral cavity 2\Duration of intensity: The colour should not rinse off immediately with ordinary rinsing methods 3\Taste: The patient should not be made uncomfortable by an unpleasant or highly flavored substance It should be pleasant and encourage co-operation of the patient  

4\Irritation to the mucous membrane: It should produce no irritation or allergic reaction Because of possibility of allergy, more than one type of disclosing agent should be available for use 5\Diffusibility: A solution should be thin enough so it can be applied readily to the exposed surfaces of the teeth

DISCLOSING AGENTS: Iodine solution preparations Diluted tincture of iodine Bismarck brown Erythrosin Fast green Fluorescein

METHOD OF APPLICATION: Dry the teeth with compressed air Retract cheek or tongue Use swab or small cotton pellet with cotton pliers to carry the solution to the teeth Apply solution to the crown of the teeth only Direct the patient to spread the agent over all surfaces of the teeth with the tongue

METHOD OF APPLICATION OF RINSES: A few drops of a concentrated preparation are placed in a paper cup Water is added for dilution Instruct the patient to rinse and swish the solution over all tooth surface METHOD OF APPLICATION OF TABLET: The patient chews the tablet Swishes it around for 30 to 60 seconds Rinse it completely

INSTRUCTIONS TO PATIENTS: Patient need to be informed about bacterial plaque composition and effect of plaque in the production of gingival and periodontal infections Patient should be shown about the location and distribution of plaque on lingual surfaces and posterior facial areas Techniques of daily plaque removal to be instructed to the patients

Thank you .