Image processing as a tool for evaluating denture adhesives removal techniques

Denture adhesives are widely used, but patients express difficulty in removing it. Image processing was already using to evaluate the effectiveness of disinfection treatments. The objective of the present study is to evaluate, under image processing, the adhesive removal protocols recommended by the adhesive manufacturers. Thirty pink acrylic discs were made, and denture adhesives were applied to their outer surface. Afterwards, the adhesive was immersed in a green food-colouring agent for 30 s. The total surface area and pigmented areas were measured using an image processing software (Image Tool 3.0). After each measurement, the adhesive removal protocols were performed. Samples were divided into two groups. In group 1 discs were brushed with a denture brush and water, with three longitudinal movements. In group 2 the discs were submerged in water with a denture cleansing tablet for 3 min and brushed. Statistical analyses were performed (p = 0.05). In our study, water brushing provided less effective results. The combination of immersion in an alkaline peroxide solution followed by brushing, despite continuing to provide low efficacy, presents much better results. Image processing is a valid tool and an objective means to measure the efficacy of different techniques for dentures.