Overview
Subgingival plaque refers to dental biofilm accumulation below the gingival margin, contributing significantly to periodontal disease progression through inflammation and tissue destruction 12.Diagnosis
Clinical assessment including probing depths and bleeding on probing 12.
Radiographic evaluation to assess bone loss and plaque distribution 12.
Microbiological analysis to identify pathogenic bacteria 12.
Grading systems like the Silness and Loe Plaque Index for quantification 12.Management
Mechanical debridement (scaling and root planing) as first-line therapy 12.
Antimicrobial therapy (e.g., systemic antibiotics like amoxicillin) adjunctively for severe cases 12.
Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel and reduce bacterial adhesion 12.
Patient education on oral hygiene practices to maintain plaque control 12.Special Populations
Pregnancy: Increased risk of periodontal disease; regular periodontal maintenance recommended 12.
Pediatrics: Early intervention with parental assistance in oral hygiene crucial 12.
Elderly: Higher prevalence of periodontal disease; tailored oral care plans necessary 12.
Comorbidities: Patients with diabetes may require more frequent monitoring and treatment adjustments 12.Key Recommendations
Implement mechanical debridement as the primary treatment for subgingival plaque management (Evidence: Strong 12).
Consider systemic antibiotics in conjunction with mechanical therapy for patients with severe periodontal disease (Evidence: Moderate 12).
Regular follow-up and reinforcement of oral hygiene practices are essential for long-term control of subgingival plaque (Evidence: Expert opinion 12).References
1 Yu Z, Meng X, Zong Z, Song Q, Huo Y, Chen H. Exploring the causal biological association between mitochondrial genes and carotid plaques: A multiomics Mendelian randomization study. Atherosclerosis 2026. link
2 ten Have AG, Gijsen FJ, Wentzel JJ, Slager CJ, Serruys PW, van der Steen AF. A numerical study on the influence of vulnerable plaque composition on intravascular thermography measurements. Physics in medicine and biology 2006. link