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Association Between Periodontal Status and the Prevalence of Entamoeba Gingivalis and Trichomonas Tenax
Sponsor: Abant Izzet Baysal University
Summary
This prospective observational study aims to investigate the prevalence and clinical significance of two oral protozoa, Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax, among patients attending the Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Periodontology. While the oral microbiome typically maintains a delicate balance, disruptions in this ecosystem are thought to trigger periodontal diseases. Recent evidence suggests that these parasites may contribute to increased inflammation and tissue destruction, potentially playing a role in the etiology of gingivitis and periodontitis. The study will include 120 participants aged 18 and older who meet the inclusion criteria. Following the collection of demographic data and oral hygiene habits via a questionnaire, a single calibrated examiner will perform comprehensive clinical periodontal examinations. Measurements will include plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and gingival recession (GR) based on the 2017 World Workshop Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions. To detect the presence of parasites, unstimulated whole saliva samples and subgingival plaque samples from the deepest periodontal pockets will be collected from each participant. These samples will be analyzed immediately at the Parasitology Laboratory using light microscopy (10X and 40X magnification) to identify live trophozoites. By evaluating the relationship between parasite prevalence and periodontal status, this research aims to contribute to the limited literature on oral protozoa in Turkey and increase clinical awareness regarding their impact on oral health.
Official title: Prevalence of Entamoeba Gingivalis and Trichomonas Tenax in Saliva and Subgingival Plaque Samples Among Periodontology Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
120
Start Date
2025-12-22
Completion Date
2026-09
Last Updated
2026-05-08
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
Clinical Periodontal Evaluation
Comprehensive periodontal examination including plaque index, gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment loss measurements using a Williams periodontal probe according to the 2017 World Workshop Classification.
Microscopic Examination of Oral Protozoa
Collection of unstimulated saliva and subgingival plaque samples followed by immediate light microscopy examination (10X and 40X magnification) to detect the presence and frequency of Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax trophozoites.
Locations (1)
Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Periodontology
Bolu, Gölköy, Turkey (Türkiye)