RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Diagnostic Accuracy of Oral Images, OPGs, Biomarkers and Questionnaires vs. Clinical Assessment for Periodontal Disease (PostNCT07164573)

This research is looking for better and easier ways to find gum disease (periodontal disease) early. Doctors usually check for gum disease by looking closely inside your mouth. This study compares that usual check-up with several new methods. These new methods include answering questions about your health, taking pictures of your teeth, using special X-rays (like an OPG), and testing your spit (saliva) for certain signs. Researchers hope to find a combination of these simpler tests that works well, making it easier for dentists to spot gum problems before they become serious. This study involves 2,000 adults visiting dental clinics.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Enrolment target

2,000

Start

01 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

01 Mar 2029

Periodontal Disease Gingivitis Periodontitis

What is this study about?

This study is all about improving how we find gum disease. Gum disease, including gingivitis (early stage) and periodontitis (more advanced), is a common problem that can lead to tooth loss if not treated. Currently, the most accurate way to diagnose it is through a very detailed dental check-up where a dentist carefully measures your gums.

However, getting such a detailed check-up isn't always quick or easy for everyone. This research aims to find simpler, less invasive ways to spot gum disease. Imagine if a quick photo, a few questions, or even a spit test could give your dentist a good idea of your gum health. This study is testing many different methods to see how well they work compared to the detailed dental check-up.

By comparing these new methods, like questionnaires, special x-rays of your jaw, photos you take yourself, and advanced tests on your spit, the scientists hope to develop better tools. These tools could help dentists identify gum disease earlier and more easily, which means you could get treatment sooner and keep your teeth healthier for longer.

Key takeaways

This study aims to find easier ways to spot gum disease.
It compares new screening tools with traditional dental check-ups.
Methods include questionnaires, photos, X-rays, and saliva tests.
The goal is to help dentists find gum problems earlier.
Participation involves a single visit for assessments.
Your involvement could improve future gum disease diagnosis for everyone.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 years or older, and currently visiting one of the dental clinics involved in the study. You must also be able to understand what the study involves and be happy to sign a consent form saying you agree to participate.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you've lost all your teeth, you won't be suitable. Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you've had significant gum treatment (more than just a routine clean) in the last year, you can't join.

Finally, if you've taken antibiotics in the three months before the study starts, you also wouldn't be able to participate. These rules help make sure the study results are as clear and accurate as possible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you currently attending one of the participating dental clinics?
Do you still have some of your natural teeth?
Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
Have you NOT had major gum treatment in the last 12 months (routine cleaning is fine)?
Have you NOT taken antibiotics in the last 3 months?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you would visit the dental clinic for a full check-up. This visit would include the standard detailed gum examination by a trained dentist. Alongside this, you would complete some questionnaires about your health and diet, and have several types of images taken of your mouth and teeth, including standard photos and special X-rays (OPGs). You might also be asked to take a photo of your own teeth using a smartphone. In some locations, you might also provide samples of your saliva or mouth rinse for special biomarker tests. You won't be given any new medications as part of this study. This will likely involve a single visit to the clinic.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help improve how gum disease is diagnosed in the future, potentially leading to earlier detection for many people. You will receive a thorough gum examination as part of your participation. The risks are generally low, mainly involving the minor discomfort of a dental examination, giving saliva samples, and having pictures and X-rays taken, similar to a regular dental appointment. All procedures are carried out by trained professionals. Remember, your participation is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your dental care.

Locations (3)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
Verified postcode
Shanghai, China· Recruiting
Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I, affiliated to Sapienza University
Verified postcode
Roma, Italy· Not yet recruiting
Department of Periodontology, Guy's Hospital affiliated to King's College London
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom· Not yet recruiting

Common questions

What is 'gum disease'?

Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that, if left untreated, can affect the bone supporting your teeth and even lead to tooth loss.

What kind of new tests are being looked at?

They're testing things like questionnaires, pictures of your teeth (including ones taken with your phone), special dental X-rays, and even saliva (spit) tests.

Will I get free dental treatment if I join?

This study is focused on diagnosis, not treatment. You will receive a thorough gum examination, but it doesn't provide free treatment.

How long will my involvement take?

Participation will likely involve a single visit to the dental clinic for assessments and data collection.

Why is it important to find gum disease early?

Catching gum disease early means it's often easier to treat, helping you keep your teeth and gums healthy and preventing more serious problems down the line.

How to find out more

Maurizio S. Tonetti

tonetti@hku.hk 15000102368 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.