In today's society cosmetic dentistry plays an important role in social relationships and in important aspects of life such as job applications and recruitment processes. Currently, the only available treatment option for patients suffering from black dental pigmentation of bacterial origin is repetitive professional dental cleanings every two or three months, which involve a significant financial outlay, and have been found to be psychologically detrimental due to the lack of a perceived cure. These pigmentations are of unknown etiology, although there has been reported the presence of black-pigment producing bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in such black plaque. These bacteria are found in a group known as periodontopathogens, bacteria responsible for the appearance of periodontitis, an oral chronic disease with high prevalence. In this context, photodynamic therapy, which uses the application of diode light with a wavelength between 400-500 nm for the elimination of periodontal pathogenic bacteria, has demonstrated effectiveness and absence of adverse effects on the management of patients with periodontitis. The proposed study seeks to evaluate the effect of photodynamic therapy on teeth with extrinsic black pigment, in order achieve an eradication of the stains. The investigators will also proceed to analyze in depth the bacterial composition of these stains before the application of photodynamic therapy, in order to stablish the aetiological agents of this black plaque.
Age range
12 Years
Sex
ALL
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A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Area and depth of color of black stain - 6 Months
Timeframe: 6 months post final treatment step for each study arm