Inter-individual variation in the plaque formation rate of young individuals.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to describe the inter-individual variation in the plaque formation rate of 38 young adults.

METHODS

The plaque formation rate was estimated by employing a quantitative plaque percent index (P% index). A substantial inter-individual variation in the plaque formation rate was observed. The possible contributions of stimulated salivary flow rate, buffer capacity, diet and smoking to the variation in plaque formation were estimated by regression analysis.

RESULTS

The control variables explained only 2.5% of the variance in the plaque formation rate. Neither associations nor the total model were significant. The present method of measuring plaque presented as a simple and time-effective procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

It is suggested that the observed variation in the plague formation rate between the young individuals can be regarded as a biological function which is possibly an inherent individual characteristic. Studies with larger sample sizes are required to confirm the findings of the present study.