Air-Polishing vs Ultrasonic Treatment for Gum Inflammation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests two dental cleaning tools to determine which better treats gum inflammation around dental implants, known as peri-implant mucositis. Peri-implant mucositis causes symptoms like bleeding, pus, and swelling around the implant. The trial compares air-polishing and ultrasonic cleaning for their effectiveness in reducing inflammation and bacteria. It seeks participants who have had a dental implant for over a year and are experiencing gum inflammation around it. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to dental health research and potentially improve their own gum health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop taking certain medications, such as long-term anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, long-term antibiotics, and anticoagulants, before participating. If you are on any of these, you may need to stop them to join the study.
What prior data suggests that these cleaning instruments are safe for treating peri-implant mucositis?
Research has shown that both air polishing and ultrasonic treatments are generally safe for people. They have not caused significant harm to dental work or mouth tissues. Air polishing, in particular, effectively manages gum inflammation around implants, with studies highlighting its safety and effectiveness over time. Similarly, clinicians have used ultrasonic devices to treat gum inflammation without serious side effects. Overall, these treatments are well-tolerated, making them reliable options for addressing gum issues around dental implants.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for gum inflammation, specifically peri-implant mucositis, because they offer unique approaches compared to traditional methods like scaling and root planing. Air-polishing uses a gentle stream of air, water, and powder to clean the teeth and gums, which can be more comfortable for patients and less damaging to the tooth surface. On the other hand, ultrasonic treatment uses high-frequency vibrations to remove plaque and tartar, providing a deep clean that might be more effective in certain cases. These innovative techniques could offer faster, more comfortable alternatives with less risk of damaging surrounding tissues, making them promising options for patients with dental implants.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for gum inflammation?
This trial will compare air-polishing and ultrasonic treatments for gum inflammation around dental implants, known as peri-implant mucositis. Research has shown that both treatments can help manage this condition. Participants may receive air-polishing, which studies have found, especially with glycine powder, can reduce the space between the gum and the implant and improve gum health over time. Alternatively, some participants will receive ultrasonic treatment, which has effectively reduced gum bleeding and inflammation. Evidence suggests these methods are promising for maintaining healthy gums around implants and reducing inflammation, making them good options for managing this condition.24678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Hom-Lay Wang, DDS MSD PhD
Principal Investigator
Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine University of Michigan
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-85 with good overall health and a dental implant that's been in place for over a year. They must show signs of gum inflammation around the implant but no bone loss, or have healthy implants as part of regular dental care. Excluded are those with poorly controlled diabetes, certain systemic diseases, smokers, pregnant women, long-term users of anti-inflammatories or antibiotics, and those on anticoagulants.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Non-surgical treatment of peri-implant mucositis using an erythritol air-polishing device or conventional mechanical debridement
Supportive Peri-implant Therapy (SPIT)
Monitoring levels of peri-implant tissues inflammation and supportive therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Air-Polish
- Ultrasonic
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Michigan
Lead Sponsor