Link Between Gum Health and Two Oral Parasites (Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax)
Prevalence of Entamoeba Gingivalis and Trichomonas Tenax in Saliva and Subgingival Plaque Samples Among Periodontology Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
This project will test whether two oral parasites, Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax, are more common in adults with gingivitis or periodontitis who visit a university dental clinic.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Abant Izzet Baysal University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bolu, Gölköy) |
| Trial ID | NCT07551115 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This single-center, cross-sectional prospective project will enroll 120 adults at the Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University dental clinic and collect demographic and oral hygiene data by questionnaire. A single calibrated examiner will perform comprehensive periodontal examinations using the 2017 World Workshop classification and record plaque index, gingival index, bleeding on probing, and probing pocket depth. Samples will be examined microscopically to detect Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax, and presence will be correlated with clinical periodontal parameters and patient-related factors. The study aims to determine how frequently these protozoa occur across different periodontal health statuses.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18 or older with at least 10 natural teeth who are willing to undergo a periodontal exam and provide informed consent are eligible, including people who are periodontally healthy or have gingivitis or periodontitis.
Not a fit: People who recently used systemic antibiotics, antiseptic mouthwash, or received periodontal treatment within the last three months, as well as pregnant or immunosuppressed individuals, are excluded and therefore unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If a link is found, results could help clarify whether these parasites contribute to gum inflammation and guide future prevention or treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior small observational studies have reported associations between these oral protozoa and periodontal inflammation but results are inconsistent and the role of the parasites remains not well established.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Participants aged 18 years or older. * Having at least 10 natural teeth. * Willingness to undergo periodontal examination and providing written informed consent. * Includes both periodontally healthy individuals and patients with gingivitis or periodontitis. Exclusion Criteria: * Use of systemic antibiotics within the last 3 months. * Use of chlorhexidine or similar antiseptic mouthwashes within the last month. * Having received any periodontal treatment within the last 3 months. * Receiving immunosuppressive therapy or having a serious systemic immune deficiency. * Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Where this trial is running
Bolu, Gölköy
- Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Periodontology — Bolu, Gölköy, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Bilge Meracı Yıldıran, Asst. Prof.
- Email: bilgemeraci@ibu.edu.tr
- Phone: +905366580192
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.