Objectives: To manipulate quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) images in order to derive plaque fluorescence profiles perpendicular to the gingival margin and then determine if any common trends are apparent therein.

Methods: QLF images were obtained of the 6 anterior teeth from volunteers (upper and lower, canine to canine). This process was then repeated after the application of a disclosing agent which stains ‘old' and ‘young' plaque differentially. Image analysis tools were applied to the QLF images by manually selecting nodes along the gingival margin and then applying an algorithm to first widen and then straighten this curved feature. Further image analysis tools were then employed in order to obtain plot profiles of red and green fluorescence perpendicular to the gingiva and through the plaque that was typically present at the gingival margin.

Results: The image analysis tools were able to successfully obtain fluorescence profiles perpendicular to the gingiva and some common trends were observed among heavy plaque forming subjects.

Conclusions: It is suggested that these image analysis techniques could be further developed to discriminate between different classes of plaque fluorescence profiles perpendicular to the gingiva. In combination with microbiological sampling, it may be possible to establish links between cohorts of patients possessing certain fluorescence profiles with their oral health status, specifically in terms of the development of the oral microbiological ecosystem towards a health or a diseased state.

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