CompletedObservational

A study capturing 3D images of gums

This study uses advanced 3D scanning to take detailed pictures of people's gums. The main goal is to see how well these 3D images can show gum health and disease, especially when gums have different natural colours. Currently, there isn't much information on how gum inflammation looks in various gum colours. This research hopes to give dental health professionals better tools and knowledge to provide fair and effective care for all patients. It involves a single visit where pictures of your mouth are taken, and your gum health is checked, but no treatments are given.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University of Bristol

Enrolment target

Start

10 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

17 Apr 2026

Gingival pigmentation, gingival health, gingival phenotype.

What is this study about?

This study is a step towards improving how dental professionals understand and care for people's gums. At the moment, there isn't a lot of research specifically looking at how gum health and problems like inflammation appear in people with different natural gum colours. This can make it harder for dental professionals to spot issues early in everyone.

That's where new technology comes in. This study uses special 3D scanners to create very detailed images of the inside of your mouth, including your gums and teeth. These scans are quick, easy to do, and provide very clear pictures. The main goal is to find out how accurately these 3D images can help identify both healthy gums and signs of gum disease across the full range of natural gum colours.

By doing this, the researchers hope to give dental professionals better ways to assess and monitor gum health. This could lead to more inclusive and effective care, ensuring that everyone receives the best possible oral health support, regardless of their natural gum colour.

Key takeaways

Aims to improve understanding of gum health across different gum colours.
Uses quick and easy 3D scans of the mouth.
Involves one clinic visit for assessment and scanning, no treatments.
For healthy adults aged 18+ with natural teeth.
Helps dental professionals provide better care for everyone.
No expected risks or side effects from participating.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for healthy adults, aged 18 or older, of any gender. To take part, you should have at least 10 of your own natural teeth (not including crowns or bridges) and generally be in good health.

You cannot have any mouth conditions or other diseases, or be taking any medicines, that might affect your gums. You also need to be a non-smoker. The study is particularly interested in people who have some areas of healthy gums and some areas where there might be slight inflammation, which can be seen just by looking.

You won't be able to join if you're currently in another dental or medical study, have tooth decay that hasn't been treated, are having braces, or have had treatments to change your gum colour. You also can't be a direct employee of the study's sponsor or the research team.

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?
Do you have at least 10 of your own natural teeth?
Are you generally in good health with no serious mouth or other health conditions?
Are you a non-smoker?
Are you not currently receiving orthodontic treatment (braces)?
Are you not taking part in any other clinical or cosmetic trials?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, it will involve just one visit. First, you'll be asked to sign a consent form. Then, a dentist will check the colour and thickness of your gums, and gently check if your gums bleed when probed – this helps assess gum health. During this visit, a 3D scan of your mouth will also be taken. This scan will capture all your teeth and gums.

That's all there is to it for you. There are no treatments or interventions provided during this study. Later, the research team will look at the anonymised 3D scans and compare them with the checks made in person, to see how accurate the scans are at showing different gum colours and signs of gum health or disease.

Potential risks and benefits

We don’t expect you to experience any risks or side effects from taking part in this study, as it only involves a visual check and a 3D scan of your mouth. A potential benefit is that your participation will help dental professionals and researchers gain a better understanding of how good 3D scanners are at identifying different gum colours and detecting both healthy gums and gum problems. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

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

Bristol Dental Hospital
City only
Bristol, England

Common questions

What is a 3D scan of the mouth?

It's like taking a very detailed digital photograph, but in three dimensions, of your teeth and gums, using a special scanner.

Will I get any dental treatment in this study?

No, this study is purely for observation and assessment. No treatments or interventions will be offered.

How long will my visit to the clinic take?

The study involves just one visit, and the assessments and scan are quick and easy to do.

Is my personal information kept private?

Yes, once your scan is taken, it will be saved with a unique ID number, and the researchers will look at anonymised (blinded) scans, meaning your personal details aren't linked directly to the scan during analysis.

Who is paying for this study?

The study is funded by 3shape, the company that makes the scanner, and is sponsored by the University of Bristol.

How to find out more

Del Buck

del.buck@bristol.ac.uk +44 7827956855 Official trial record

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