MICRO-SURG: Subgingival Microbiome in Peri-Implantitis, Regenerative, and Resective Periodontal Surgery
This study explores how the tiny germs in our mouths, called the subgingival microbiome, change after three common types of gum surgery. These surgeries include procedures for gum disease (periodontitis) and problems around dental implants (peri-implantitis). We want to understand if different kinds of surgery lead to different changes in these mouth bacteria. By studying samples taken before and after surgery, we hope to find out how these treatments affect the natural balance of germs in your mouth. The goal is to gain insights that could lead to better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat these common mouth conditions in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is designed to understand how the bacteria living under your gums change after certain types of dental surgery. We are looking at three specific procedures: two for gum disease (periodontitis) and one for problems around dental implants (peri-implantitis). Gum disease can cause your gums to become inflamed and can damage the bone supporting your teeth. Peri-implantitis is a similar problem that affects the gum and bone around dental implants.
The main idea is to see if these different surgeries affect the balance of germs in your mouth in different ways. For example, does one type of surgery help the 'good' bacteria recover better, or does another type cause more disruption? To find this out, we will collect small samples of plaque (the sticky film on your teeth) from under the gums before your surgery and at certain times afterwards. We'll then carefully examine these samples to identify the types of bacteria present and how they change.
By understanding these changes, we hope to learn more about how these surgeries work at a microscopic level. This knowledge could help us improve existing treatments, develop new ones, and even find better ways to prevent gum disease and implant problems from returning. Ultimately, this research aims to make future gum and implant treatments more effective for everyone.
Key takeaways
- Study examines gum bacteria changes after surgery.
- Focuses on gum disease and dental implant problems.
- Aims to improve future treatment strategies.
- Participation involves routine surgeries and sample collection.
- You'll get standard care for your condition.
- Your contribution helps advance dental science.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult, aged between 18 and 80 years old. You would usually have a confirmed diagnosis of either severe gum disease (periodontitis) or a problem with an existing dental implant (peri-implantitis) that requires surgery. It's important that your dentist or specialist has recommended one of the specific surgeries being studied.
You should be able to understand what the study involves and be willing to give your permission to take part. We also need you to have good general mouth hygiene and be able to come to all your follow-up appointments. You must also be prepared to provide small samples of your saliva and plaque for the study.
There are also some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you have certain serious health conditions, or if you've recently taken strong antibiotics. You also can't be pregnant or breastfeeding, smoke heavily, or have an active COVID-19 infection. If you have severe allergies to common dental materials or are already part of another medical study, you might also not be able to participate. We also need to make sure you can attend all appointments and understand all the study information.
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 to 80 years old?
- Do you have a diagnosis of severe gum disease or an implant problem needing surgery?
- Can you attend follow-up appointments?
- Are you generally healthy and not pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Haven't taken antibiotics in the last 3 months?
- Are you willing to provide small plaque and saliva samples?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll first have your usual planned surgery for your gum disease or dental implant problem. Before the surgery, and at several times afterwards, a small sample of the plaque from under your gums will be collected. This is a simple and quick process, similar to what might happen during a regular dental check-up.
We will also take a saliva sample. You will then have follow-up appointments, just like you would for your normal dental care, but we will collect these samples at specific times during these visits. The study will last for a period of time after your surgery, during which these follow-up samples will be taken. You will receive the standard of care for your condition throughout the study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Hospital MünsterVerified postcodeMünster, Germany· Recruiting
Common questions
What is 'subgingival microbiome'?
It's simply the community of tiny germs and bacteria that live under your gums.
What is the study hoping to achieve?
We want to understand how different gum surgeries affect the bacteria in your mouth, to find ways to make treatments better.
Will I get any special treatment in this study?
No, you will receive the standard, recommended surgery and care for your condition, just as you would normally.
How often will I need to visit the clinic?
You'll attend your usual follow-up appointments after surgery, and we'll collect samples at some of these visits.
What kind of samples will be collected?
Small, painless samples of plaque from under your gums and a saliva sample will be taken.
How to find out more
Benjamin Ehmke, Univ. -Prof. Dr. med. dent.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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