Using ultra-high frequency ultrasound to study gum tissue in healthy individuals and those with gingivitis

Ulta-High Frequency Ultrasound Assessment of Normal Versus Gingivitis Affected Gingival Tissues

Observational University of Pisa · NCT06480825

This study is testing how ultra-high frequency ultrasound can help us see the differences in gum tissue between healthy people and those with gingivitis.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pisa Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Pisa, Italy and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06480825 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to compare the clinical aspects of gingival tissue between healthy individuals and patients suffering from gingivitis. Participants will undergo ultra-high frequency ultrasonographic scans to assess various parameters of gingival tissue, including thickness, echogenicity, and vascularization. The study will enroll both healthy controls and patients with gingivitis, focusing on the ultrastructural variations associated with inflammation. The scans will be performed on three areas of the dental arch to gather comprehensive data.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include males and females over 18 years old with at least 20 teeth and significant plaque accumulation.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or currently undergoing treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of gingival inflammation and improve diagnostic methods for periodontal diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of ultrasonography in periodontal research is established, this specific application of ultra-high frequency ultrasound is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* males or females of age \> 18 years
* presence of at least 20 teeth
* full-mouth plaque score (FMPS) \>50%
* FMBS \>30%
* ability and willingness to give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* pregnancy or breastfeeding
* pharmacological treatment with antinflammatory drugs, statins, or either local or systemic antibiotics (within the previous 30 days)
* smoking habit
* dental or periodontal condition requiring immediate treatment
* refusal to be enrolled in the study

Where this trial is running

Pisa, Italy and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions GingivitisPeriodontitis
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.