Effectiveness of the Phase Contrast Microscope in Dental Patient Motivation

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the effectiveness of the phase contrast microscope when used as an adjunct to a patient education program in motivating individuals to improve oral hygiene habits. A convenience sample with randomized groups was utilized to select sixty-five subjects. Subjects attended five appointments: one appointment for oral prophylaxis, three appointments for oral hygiene instruction and a three month recall. A phase contrast microscope demonstration was the independent variable. Plaque scores were measured at each appointment using a Modification of the OHI-S. No statistically significant difference existed between the groups at any coinciding appointments. Statistically significant increases in plaque were found within each group when comparing the pretest score with each posttest score. No significant difference was detected in patient motivation in a patient education program with a phase contrast microscope demonstration and an otherwise identical patient education program without a phase contrast microscope demonstration.