Comparison of plaque samples and saliva samples using the CAT21 Test® (Cariostat method)

The study compared CAT21® test scores (Cariostat score) of plaque and saliva samples of 117 kindergarten pupils to check the congruency of both sampling methods. The scores were also compared with that of the subject's “d” and “df” teeth. Test scores are based on color changes resulting from a decrease in pH brought about by presence of acid-producing microorganisms. Results revealed an early color change of the CAT21® test solution of the saliva samples compared to that of plaque samples. However, the difference in the color change in both sampling procedures became negligible after 48 hours of incubation. Results revealed a statistically significant correlation between CAT21® test scores of both sampling procedures and when compared with the mean “df” teeth.