The Effect of Enzymes on Dental Plaque: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

ABSTRACT: The extracellular matrix has been identified as an essential determinant of virulence of dental biofilms. Therefore, enzymes that degrade the matrix are a promising preventive approach for biofilm control. Laboratory studies have consistently reported significant effects of enzyme treatment on biofilm formation, but information from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) is limited. The present triple-blind RCT investigated the effect of lozenges containing 2 different concentrations of the matrix-degrading enzymes mutanase, beta-glucanase, and DNase on de novo plaque formation, gingivitis development, and the plaque microbiome in healthy adults. Eighty subjects were enrolled with random allocation to either placebo, active 1, or active 2 (3-fold enzyme concentration). All subjects completed th

SUBMITTER: Rikvold PD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12769920 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature